The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed its desire for Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to join its ranks to bolster support for President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid in 2027.
Tony Okocha, the Chairman of the State APC Caretaker Committee, made this known during a one-million-man solidarity march for Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
Okocha described Wike as a pivotal political strategist in Rivers State, emphasizing his influence and the significant impact he had in securing Tinubu’s victory in the state during the last election. He highlighted that Wike’s political acumen and leadership are crucial for the party’s success in future elections.
“Wike is the leader of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ in Rivers State. He was instrumental in Tinubu’s victory here. Wike is a reformer and a leader who can’t be ignored in our state’s politics,” Okocha said.
Okocha explained the presence of Wike’s image on banners alongside President Tinubu’s, stating, “This is not solely an APC event but a show of support for the Renewed Hope Agenda. We continue to woo Wike to join the APC to ensure ongoing electoral victories for Tinubu, especially looking ahead to 2027.”
Reflecting on past challenges, Okocha noted, “At one point, we couldn’t campaign for our presidential candidate through the APC platform due to threats from the party’s leadership in the state. They dismissed Tinubu as too old and unfit. However, we believe Tinubu is the best thing to happen to Nigeria.”
Okocha acknowledged that rebuilding Nigeria takes time and commended President Tinubu’s efforts so far, especially his decisive actions on fuel subsidies and economic reforms.
“We need leaders like Wike, who played a significant role in the 2023 elections, to continue supporting President Tinubu in his quest to transform Nigeria,” he added.
The APC’s continued overtures to Wike underscore his importance in the political landscape of Rivers State and the party’s strategy to consolidate support for future electoral victories.
