By Chimdiogo Amuh 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that anyone, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, can issue him political directives regarding Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general election.

Wike made the statement while addressing his supporters at the weekend in Ahoada Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Reacting to reports suggesting that some individuals were boasting that the President would instruct him on political matters in the state, the former Rivers governor described such claims as false and misleading.

According to Wike, no individual has the authority to dictate political decisions in Rivers State, stressing that electoral tickets would not be handed out based on slogans or loyalty chants.

“I hear people boasting that the President will call me and give me instructions. Let me make it clear—there is nothing like instructions as far as Rivers State is concerned. Nobody will call me,” Wike said.

He added that repeatedly chanting “on your mandate” would not automatically guarantee any aspirant a party ticket, an apparent reference to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

Daily Post recalls that Fubara recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike further emphasized that political decisions in Rivers State would be guided by his personal judgment and strategic interests, not external pressure.

“If you like shout ‘on your mandate’ 50 times a day, it will not give you an automatic ticket,” he stated.

The FCT Minister also reiterated that he would only support candidates who would protect his political interests and remain loyal, rather than those he believes may later betray him.