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Tensions in Rivers State’s political landscape could rise if Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, follows through on his warning to forcibly access the Yakubu Gowon Stadium for political rallies.
Wike issued the statement on Friday, January 30, in Port Harcourt, saying he and his supporters would “break” into the stadium if the Rivers State Government continues to deny them permission for political activities. He added confidently that “heaven will not fall” should the stadium be accessed by force.
The minister made the remarks during the inauguration of senatorial and local government coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a political group formed to mobilise support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Wike, his group had formally requested permission from the state government to use Yakubu Gowon Stadium but was denied—a move he described as unprecedented.
“We applied to the state government to use the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, and they refused. Next time, if they refuse again, we will break it, and nothing will happen,” Wike said.
He also emphasised Rivers State’s role as a leading centre of political mobilisation, asserting that the state would continue to set the pace in demonstrating support for President Tinubu. “I know other states may inaugurate their own structures, but Rivers State will always lead the way. Support is not just words; we have shown commitment with action,” he added.
Wike further noted that political activities ahead of the 2027 elections had officially begun, with ward-level inaugurations expected to follow. “I told you that by January we would start playing politics. This is January, and we have started. If you don’t give us the venue, we will break it,” he reiterated.
The former Rivers governor also questioned the state government’s loyalty to President Tinubu, implying that political alignment is essential to attract federal support.
“You cannot have a governor in the state while we are openly declaring support for President Tinubu, and you are not aligning. How then do you expect a reward?” he asked.
Wike argued that political rewards are earned through commitment rather than financial contributions. “You don’t need N600 billion. All you need is commitment. That is what brings reward, even if it brings envy,” he said.
