Sudden Loyalty Won’t Deceive Anyone, Wike Tells ‘Emergency Singers’

By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned those he described as “emergency singers” of the slogan “on your mandate, we shall stand” to honour political agreements, saying sudden shows of loyalty will not deceive anyone.

Speaking during his Christmas visits to Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of Rivers State on Sunday, Wike said support for President Bola Tinubu should be based on commitment, not convenience.

“For us, agreement is agreement,” he said. “You can start singing ‘on your mandate we shall stand’ today, but that won’t help anyone. We have been supporting the President since 2023.”

Addressing people of Ikwerre, Wike recalled that they backed Tinubu at a time when his victory was uncertain, describing politics as a risk they were willing to take.

“In 2023, when it was difficult and others were nowhere to be found, Ikwerre people stood firm,” he said. “The votes that helped the President win in Rivers largely came from Ikwerre.”

He added that true loyalty is shown during challenging times, not when success is already assured.

“You take a stand when things are tough, not when food is ready,” Wike said.

The minister also reiterated his position on power rotation, insisting that the South must complete eight years in office under President Tinubu, regardless of party differences.

“The South must complete its eight years,” he said. “After that, in 2031, we will know what comes next.”