Politics is About Interest, Votes Not Emotions, Wike Tells Critics

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)Politics is About Interest, Votes Not Emotions, Wike Tells Critics,  Nyesom Wike, has dismissed criticism over his political choices, insisting that politics is driven by interests, power and the mandate of the people—not personal emotions.

Wike made the remarks on Sunday at the grand finale of his statewide “thank you” tour in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, where thousands of supporters turned out to welcome him.

Addressing the crowd, the former Rivers State governor said he had never hidden his ambition to pursue a career in politics, stressing that his choice of profession should not be a source of resentment to anyone.

“Don’t be angry because I chose to be a politician,” Wike said. “I never said I wanted to be a journalist or a pastor. I made it clear that politics was my path, and that is what I am doing.”

He explained that his return to Obio/Akpor was to appreciate the people for their consistent support over the years, noting that gratitude remains a core value of responsible leadership.

“When people stand by you, you must recognise them. Appreciation is important. That is why I returned to say thank you,” he stated.

Wike also pushed back against accusations branding him a traitor or impostor, saying such labels were the product of misunderstanding and political bitterness.

“I have never described myself as a traitor. If that were my intention, I know exactly where to position myself. Politics demands clarity of purpose, not emotional reactions,” he said.

According to him, politics is fundamentally about protecting collective interests rather than acting on sentiments.

“Politics is not about emotions; it is about interest, the interest of your people. Power does not come automatically, and it is not meant for everyone,” Wike added.

He cautioned against downplaying electoral strength, stressing that votes remain the true source of political authority.

“Our real power lies in the vote. Five thousand votes represent strength. Controlling 40 per cent means influence. We will deploy our strength where it counts. That is the reality of politics,” he said.

Wike further reminded Nigerians that governance is impossible without popular backing, emphasising that the electorate ultimately determines who wields power.

“There is no authority greater than the will of the people. You may insult us today, but never forget that power comes from the ballot,” he warned.

Earlier, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, described Wike as a grassroots politician whose influence remains firmly rooted in Obio/Akpor.

“This is your home. People have been waiting here since morning just to receive you. In truth, we are the ones who should be thanking you,” Chinda said.

He revealed that Obio/Akpor accounts for 684,812 votes out of Rivers State’s more than 3.5 million registered voters, describing Wike’s political standing in the state as unassailable.

“Nobody can intimidate you in Rivers State. Your position here is secure,” he added.

Chinda also recalled Wike’s directive to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 elections, noting that the decision has yielded positive results.

“By 2027, we will surpass what we achieved in 2023,” he assured.

Also speaking, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Martins Amaewhule, pledged the Assembly’s continued loyalty to Wike and assured President Tinubu of overwhelming support in the next general election.

“Please tell Mr President to rest easy. Rivers people, particularly Obio/Akpor, will deliver even stronger results in 2027,” Amaewhule said.

The colourful rally, attended by party leaders, lawmakers and supporters from across the state, marked the conclusion of Wike’s appreciation tour and underscored his continued dominance of Rivers State’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.