Political rivalry appears to be giving way to cooperation in Rivers State as leading figures across party lines align behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, according to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking during an engagement with community leaders, youths and women groups, Wike said long-standing divisions between the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party have diminished, replaced by a shared focus on governance and development.
According to him, party affiliation has become secondary to collective responsibility, stressing that residents are increasingly united by common goals rather than political labels.
He described the current atmosphere as one driven by mutual respect and a commitment to delivering tangible benefits to the grassroots.
“In Rivers, what matters now is not whether you are APC or PDP, but whether you are prepared to work for the people,” Wike said, adding that political actors in the state have embraced a broader national vision anchored on progress and inclusion.
Furthermore, the minister clarified that his visit to Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas was not campaign-related. Instead, he explained that the tour was meant to acknowledge sustained community support and reinforce the importance of peaceful collaboration among local stakeholders.
“I came simply to appreciate the people. When citizens stand by you over time, it is only right to return and say thank you,” he said.
Wike also praised the leadership of the two local government chairmen, noting that their ability to maintain trust and honour political agreements has helped sustain stability within their councils.
He warned that failure to respect such understandings often fuels unnecessary tension at the local level.
Moreover, the former Rivers governor underscored unity as a critical driver of development, arguing that divided communities often struggle to attract meaningful progress.
He urged political leaders to prioritise consensus-building over rivalry to secure long-term benefits for residents.
“When people move together, results follow. Division only weakens the system,” Wike said.
He concluded by commending women, youths and traditional leaders for maintaining a calm and orderly environment during the visit, describing the peaceful reception as a sign of growing political maturity in Rivers State.