Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has emphasized the necessity for the southern region of Nigeria to fulfill its two full terms of eight-year presidential slots. This call is made in the spirit of fairness and equity within the nation’s political landscape.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Wike’s remarks were made during his special Christmas visits to Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas in Rivers. Addressing the local populace, Wike stated that President Bola Tinubu, who hails from the southern part of the country, should be supported to complete his current term and be re-elected for a second term, extending his presidency until 2031. This, he argued, aligns with the established principle of power rotation in Nigeria’s political system.
Wike further asserted that party affiliation should not hinder support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid. He stated, “The South must complete their eight years. It doesn’t matter which party we belong to give Mr President the needed support to succeed. In 2031, after the South must have completed its eight years through President Tinubu, we will know what to do next.”
The Minister also highlighted the importance of politicians honoring political agreements to foster trust, confidence, and harmony among political actors and the electorate. He reminded the people of Ikwerre of the risks they took in supporting Tinubu during the 2023 elections, at a time when others were hesitant.
“In 2023, when it was difficult to campaign for Tinubu and when people were not sure he would emerge as President, the Ikwerre knew politics is about risk and they took the risk,” Wike recounted. He noted that the significant votes from Rivers, particularly from Ikwerre, were crucial in Tinubu’s electoral victory. Wike criticized those who now vocally support the President but were not present when it was most critical.