We gathered that Wike made this known on Saturday during a special gathering held at his Abuja residence to commemorate his 58th birthday.
The former Rivers State governor said his political position remained unchanged before, during and after the 2023 presidential election, stressing that he had been consistent and transparent with his choices.
He explained that his political decisions were anchored on character and integrity, noting that he never hid his support for Tinubu from the very beginning.
Recalling events ahead of the 2023 polls, Wike said he stood out as the only prominent figure from the major opposition party who openly backed Tinubu.
According to him, his decision was driven by considerations of equity, fairness and justice, as well as his belief that political power should rotate to the South.
“My leadership capacity was demonstrated in Rivers during the elections, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the presidential poll.
“Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured victories in the National Assembly, governorship, State House of Assembly and local government elections under my watch.”
Wike expressed gratitude to his political family and close associates for their unwavering support, acknowledging their influence on his leadership journey.
He said he found fulfilment working closely with his people and pledged to sustain that collaboration in the overall interest of Rivers State and the country.
The minister added that criticisms and verbal attacks did not distract him, describing them instead as part of the motivation that kept him pushing forward.
The birthday celebration drew political leaders from across party lines, including serving and former National Assembly members from Rivers State, as well as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule.
Also present were local government chairmen, close friends and political associates, many of whom reaffirmed their loyalty and continued support.
Several speakers took turns to praise Wike, portraying him as an “achiever and astute politician” whose influence, they said, resonates beyond Rivers State.
Rivers Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former PDP Chairman, Amb. Desmond Akawor, described the FCT minister as the “naked wire” of Rivers politics, adding that his achievements showed Tinubu made the right choice in working with him.
Amaewhule, in his remarks, thanked Wike for being a dependable leader and assured him of the assembly’s continued loyalty, declaring that “wherever our leader (Wike) goes, we will follow him, whoever he is supporting, we will also support”.
Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government and Rivers ALGON Chairman, Allwell Ihunda, also lauded Wike, calling him a “consistent and compassionate leader”.
Other dignitaries at the event included Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Committee, Mohammed Abdulrahman; Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa; PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih; APC chieftain Victor Giadom; and former Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu.
