Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has firmly rejected mounting calls for his dismissal, emphasizing that any decision regarding his removal rests solely with President Bola Tinubu. These demands for his sack intensified amidst a backdrop of increasing hostility between Wike and his successor as Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. Critics, including a coalition of leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) operating under the APC Leaders Forum (ALF) and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement (TSSM), issued an open letter urging President Tinubu to remove Wike from office. They cited alleged insubordination, anti-party activities, and threats to national unity as primary reasons for their request.

During a “thank you” visit to his Local Government Area, Obio/Akpor in Rivers, Wike addressed his critics head-on. He asserted that if his appointing authority, President Tinubu, believes he can no longer contribute effectively, then the President has every right to remove him. “If my appointor believes that I cannot offer anything again, he has the right. It’s not that you should tell him,” Wike stated. He added that the public discourse surrounding his name, even from detractors, is a testament to the commendable work he is undertaking as minister, proclaiming that Rivers people are proud of his performance in the FCT.

Wike further elaborated on his political philosophy, stating that there is no room for sentiment or emotion in politics; only the interest of the people truly matters. He declared that “power is not given but taken,” highlighting the significant influence of Obio/Akpor LGA in Rivers State politics. According to Wike, no individual has become governor or Senator of Rivers East without the decisive pronouncement of Obio/Akpor. He warned those who might abuse his supporters to later seek their votes, stating, “we will punish you with the votes.” He reiterated that President Tinubu is well aware of his capabilities and does not require external persuasion to make decisions regarding his appointment.

The FCT Minister also took the opportunity to critique former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his loyalists, particularly concerning their aspirations for the 2027 presidential election. Citing past election results, Wike contended that Atiku’s camp lacks the capacity to secure an election victory, dismissing them as individuals who couldn't even deliver ten percent for Atiku in 2023. He confidently stated, “We are the ones who have been passing every election,” and affirmed strong support for President Tinubu’s re-election, asserting that the issue of the 2027 presidency is settled.

The visit to Obio/Akpor showcased overwhelming support for Wike from local political figures. Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and representative for Obio/Akpor, highlighted the LGA's formidable voting strength of over 684,000 votes out of Rivers State’s 3.5 million registered voters, emphasizing its undeniable political power. Gift Worlu, the Council Chairman, hailed Wike as a “gift” to the LGA, state, and country for his outstanding public service. Worlu assured the minister of the people’s unwavering support for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, attributing a