2027: “Allow us play our game” – Wike tells Rivers traditional leader

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has urged the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Okirika, Rivers State to stay away from the state’s politics in 2027.

Speaking during a visit to the palace of the traditional leader over the weekend, Wike said while he believes the Amanyanabo would have a preferred candidate for the governorship poll in the next election, it is important for him to resist any urge to get involved in politics.

Wike’s remarks follows his rift with the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara despite calls from various political quarters for the Minister to stay away from Rivers politics, having left office as governor in 2023.

Recall that Fubara had also faced a six-month suspension following a declaration of a state of Emergency in Rivers by President Bola Tinubu.

Also, the governor in a swift political move joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while declaring total support for President Tinubu’s government and re-election bid in 2027.

However, reacting to the moves by Fubara, Wike said politics would soon commence in the state and joining the APC or declaring support for the president would not save the governor.

He told Amanyanabo, “We will soon start politics. I didn’t say you should be involved, don’t be involved, allow us play our politics. Stay as a traditional ruler, I don’t want anybody to say tomorrow you’re putting your hand, don’t put your hand but that doesn’t mean you don’t have anybody you support in your mind. But allow us to play our game.

“If there’s any problem you call us, we settle but I want to tell you that, it won’t be business as usual again. All of us have taken decision on what to do.

“And I believe those of them who are your children will tell you the decision which we have taken. Just for your ears oo! Not for you to participate,” Wike said.

He further noted that over time, he had resisted the urge to visit the palace of the Amanyanabo for reasons best known to him.

“You’re my friend but why I have not been coming since is based on your stool, I don’t want anybody to say Amanagbon, you’ve cancelled the recognition but I know you will not be happy that I left without coming to greet you,” Wike added.