Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has said the alleged leadership mistake made in Rivers State would be corrected in 2027, stressing that leaders must govern in line with the will of the people and not pursue personal agendas.
Wike made the remark during a thank-you visit to the people of Khana in Bori, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he expressed appreciation for their support for him and President Bola Tinubu.
According to the minister, the lesson from past leadership choices would guide future decisions at the state level. “We will not make the same mistake again at the state level in 2027, but we will talk about it later when the time comes,” he said, urging residents to remain united and follow the direction of their leaders.
He noted that his visit was not politically motivated but was meant to thank the people of Khana for standing by him and President Tinubu, particularly during the 2023 elections when many others were hesitant.
Wike said the support shown by the community had already begun to yield dividends, citing improved road infrastructure, the establishment of the University of Environment and other development projects. He added that Ogoniland had continued to receive federal appointments, with more expected.
“During the turbulent period, Khana stood with us and now you have benefitted because of the love of Mr President,” he said.
The minister further stated that Rivers people would henceforth vote not strictly along party lines but as a united family committed to the development of the state under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Earlier, Rep. Dumnamene Dekor (APC–Khana) commended Wike and President Tinubu for what he described as making Ogoniland a source of pride nationally. He assured the minister of the community’s loyalty, saying the people were ready to follow his leadership direction.
Dekor also said lawmakers from Rivers State had surrendered their mandate to President Tinubu in support of his administration.
Speaking on behalf of women in the area, Mrs Barile Nwakoh, representing Khana I State Constituency, thanked Wike for remembering the people of Khana, attributing his wide support in Rivers to goodwill, sincerity and love for the people. She said women in the area were ready to mobilise support for President Tinubu should he seek a second term.
Chairman of Khana Local Council, Dr Thomas Bariere, also praised Wike for his commitment to the area, noting that the community had experienced improvements since supporting President Tinubu. He assured the minister of the continued support of the people of Khana.
(NAN)
