By Olokuta Rofiat
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has commended members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for what he described as their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and their resolve to defend the interests of the state.
Wike said the lawmakers showed courage and loyalty by standing firm during politically tense periods, noting that their actions helped to uphold constitutional order and prevent instability in Rivers State.
He argued that aligning with the Federal Government under President Tinubu’s leadership would attract development benefits to the state, urging political actors to prioritise governance, peace and stability over personal or factional interests.
The former governor also called on the lawmakers to remain focused on their legislative responsibilities and continue working for the progress and unity of the state.
However, Wike denied having any role in the recent defection of 17 Rivers State lawmakers to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the move was taken without his knowledge or consent.
A senior figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike said the defections reflected ongoing political tensions and internal divisions within Rivers politics, stressing that he remains committed to the PDP despite the shifting political alignments in the state.
