Rivers: Tinubu, Wike committed to development, says Dike

By Daniel Abia, P/Harcourt A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Barr. Princewill Dike, has described Saturday’s Rainbow Coalition presidential campaign rally at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt, as a defining moment in the state’s political history. Dike, who spoke with journalists shortly after the rally, said the event demonstrated political unity and the commitment of Rivers leaders and supporters to the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 and other Rainbow Coalition candidates in the state.

He said the turnout of political leaders, party members, supporters and residents from across the state reflected the level of political mobilisation and support for Tinubu’s administration and the political leadership of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Dike said Tinubu’s remarks on the country’s economic challenges and ongoing reforms showed the Federal Government’s determination to address structural problems inherited from previous administrations.

“Tinubu is not the cause of Nigeria’s economic woes, but he is not resting on his oars in correcting the economic mismanagement of past administrations,” he said. The APC chieftain urged Nigerians to assess government policies within the broader context of national recovery and sustainable development. He said the President’s response to concerns about hunger and the rising cost of living underscored the need for deliberate reforms, responsible leadership and collective sacrifice.

Dike also commended Wike for the mobilisation at the rally, describing him as a political leader whose organisational capacity, grassroots connections and understanding of Rivers politics had attracted national attention. He said Wike’s reference to the completion of the Bonny-Bodo Road, the establishment of the Federal University of Environment in Ogoniland and the appointment of at least 47 Rivers indigenes to federal positions highlighted the importance of engagement with the Federal Government.

He also described Wike’s challenge to former Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi to account for projects and financial transactions during his administration as significant, adding that accountability remained an essential element of democratic leadership. Dike further described Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s pledge to deliver at least three million votes for Tinubu in 2027 as a major expression of political commitment.

He said the warm embrace between Tinubu and Fubara after the governor’s address symbolised reconciliation and the willingness of political leaders to work together despite previous disagreements. He urged Rivers residents, particularly youths, women and community leaders, to sustain their engagement in the political process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dike expressed confidence that cooperation among Tinubu, Wike and Fubara would create opportunities for further development in Rivers State, particularly in infrastructure, federal appointments, economic opportunities and the Niger Delta.