Wike Stood By Me When APC Abandoned Me — Oshiomhole

Former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, on Monday, publicly acknowledged the support he received from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during what he described as one of the most challenging periods of his political career.

Speaking during the commissioning of 54 construction equipment procured by the Edo State Government for local government councils on Monday, Oshiomhole recounted how Wike stood by him after he was removed as APC National Chairman.

Referring to Wike, Oshiomhole said, “This is a man who knows the meaning of friendship. He identifies with people when they are in distress. After I was dismissed as National Chairman of the APC, when many deserted me, he reached out.”

The former Edo State governor noted that following his removal from office, he experienced political isolation.

“When I was removed and became lonely, abandoned by my own party, people were afraid to visit me because it could be termed anti-party,” he stated.

“But I got a call from a rare Nigerian who identifies with those who are lonely. He invited me to Port Harcourt to commission a flyover.”

Oshiomhole added that beyond the invitation, Wike honoured him with the highest recognition in Rivers State, a gesture he described as remarkable given the political differences between them at the time.

“What he did was not to judge Edo people by the behaviour of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. It was an act of courage and friendship,” he said.

The Senator also commended Wike’s performance as incumbent FCT Minister, describing him as a trailblazer from the South-South region.

“Wike is the first person from the South-South to be appointed as FCT Minister, and he has ministered in a way that has redefined the concept of development. If anyone was in doubt, the projects across Abuja speak for themselves,” Oshiomhole stated.