Wike expresses regret for endorsing Fubara’s ticket

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has apologised to Felix Obuah, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Rivers State, for asking him to step down for the current governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, in the run-up to the state’s 2023 governorship election.

Wike, who has been at odds with his successor since last year, spoke on Sunday at an event sponsored by Obuah in Omoku, in the state’s Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA.

In the run-up to the election, Wike persuaded Obuah and other PDP hopefuls to step down for Fubara, but immediately after the new administration took over, the relationship between him and his successor soured until President Bola Tinubu intervened.

However, recalling how Obuah, also known as Go-Round, had supported him in his bid for governor while he (Obuah) was party chairman, Wike expressed sorrow for not reciprocating the gesture.

“Leadership is all about firmness, courage, and transparency.” When a leader makes a mistake, nothing prevents that leader from returning to say, “I am sorry for that decision I made,” Wike added.

“In 2023, if you look at those who I would normally support for governorship, Go-Round should be at the forefront,” he added.

“That is, if we do things based on your contribution, on your support, Go-Round should be one of the first two people to get my support.” So, I’d like to use this time to apologise to everyone; to Onelga for making a judgement that harmed you. I apologise.

“Your judgement may not always be correct, but I am a human being, and I may make mistakes.” However, it is critical that you recognise your error and apologise to the individuals. So I implore you to implore Go-Round to forgive me. I hope another opportunity presents itself one day, but no one should lose hope.

Earlier, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil), stated it would be incorrect to restrict Wike to a Rivers State leader, claiming that he is a South-South politician with links and friendships across Nigeria.