I remain ‘General Commander’ of political structure in Rivers, FCT — Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he remains in charge of the political structure in Rivers State and the FCT, boasting of his achievements and declaring himself the “General Commander of the Political Infantry.”

Wike disclosed this while speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday.

When he was questioned about the presence of an incumbent governor in Rivers State, Wike dismissed claims that sitting governors hold absolute control over political territories.

“You do not need to be governor before you can be in charge. I am the General Commander of the Political Infantry; therefore, I am in charge. So also in FCT. I owe the president to give these two. As far as the election is concerned, you count FCT as a state,” Wike declared.

The minister clarified that his trip to Rivers State was to reconnect with his political base and spend time with his family, while making it clear that he will actively shape political outcomes ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections.

“It’s not about relocating; it’s about coming home to reconnect with my people and talk to them, not taking chances… so that they don’t just sit in Abuja and think everything is going well,” Wike noted.

“I have to come back home and see how those things are going on. My coming home is very good and not only political. I have parents who are still alive; I have to see them and do other things.

“Politics, of course … this is the time. You want me to fold my hand for Atiku to come and win the election?” he asked.

Speaking further, the former Rivers State governor insisted that his remarks carried national weight.

“Sorry, don’t round up. This story is very important. Without this story, don’t round up. I’m a special person that Nigerians want to listen to,” he stated.

Wike pushed back against critics, referencing his record as governor of Rivers State, where he cited the completion of 12 flyovers as proof of his executive capacity.

“I was a governor, not a governor of any other state but governor of Rivers State. People thought I just came. Before harmattan, there was cold. I didn’t just come from zero. Look, I came to FCT to prove a point that there’s nothing difficult if you want to work, and whether you agree or not, we’ve been able to change that narrative,” he added.

“That’s why you have more enemies. If you take first in class, instead of people asking how you did it, some people will say every time he’s proving, as if he’s the only one who can take first. Go and take first; let’s see. We have changed the narrative, and that’s why no party will win the president in FCT.”