Wike Urges Ateke Tom to Refrain from Politics Ahead of 2027
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, King Ateke Tom, to remain neutral and allow political actors to conduct their activities as preparations for the 2027 elections begin.
Speaking during a visit to the monarch, Wike said political engagements in Rivers State would soon intensify and stressed that there was no expectation for traditional institutions to be involved.
“Allow us to play our politics. Don’t put your hand in it. We are not asking you to be involved; just allow us to play our game,” the minister stated.
King Ateke Tom is widely regarded as a highly influential leader, particularly among youths, chiefs, and women in Okrika. Wike, however, emphasised that his visit was strictly to express appreciation, noting that it was the first time he had visited a traditional ruler’s palace for such a purpose.
“Okrika has supported me, and I felt it was necessary to come and say thank you,” he said, commending the monarch for sustaining peace in the area. According to him, Okrika has remained largely crisis-free due to the king’s leadership. “Since you came, we have not heard of any crisis,” Wike added.
Earlier, while addressing residents at the Okrika Local Government Council secretariat, Wike warned that any wrong political decision in 2027 would result in “political burial,” insisting he was determined not to repeat past mistakes. He described himself as an Ijaw man by affinity, citing his long-standing relationship with the Ijaw and Okrika people.
The minister thanked the community for its support during the recent political crisis and acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for ensuring the conduct of local government elections, which he said helped to correct previous irregularities.
“We took a risk in 2023 to support President Tinubu, and today we are benefiting from that decision,” he said.
Looking ahead to 2027, Wike stated that his political camp would only back candidates with proven character, stressing that the errors of 2023 must not recur. He also noted that the slogan “On your mandate, we stand” would not guarantee automatic tickets for any aspirant.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Rivers Ijaw Peoples Congress, George Sekibo, reaffirmed the support of the Ijaw people for Wike, praising him for appointments given to their kinsmen and thanking President Tinubu for his support.
Chairman of Okrika Local Government Area, Akuro Tobin, commended Wike’s leadership and developmental efforts, particularly the ongoing construction of the Eleme–Onne section of the East–West Road, which he said had boosted economic activities in the area.
On behalf of the women, Deputy Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly and member representing Okrika Constituency, Linda Stewart, expressed strong support for Wike and offered prayers for the minister and his political team.
