Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he remains firmly in control of his political structure in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory, insisting that holding the office of governor is not a prerequisite for political influence.

Wike made the declaration on Wednesday while speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he said he would remain actively involved in shaping political developments ahead of the 2027 elections.

Responding to questions about the presence of an incumbent governor in Rivers State, the former governor dismissed the notion that sitting governors automatically exercise absolute control over their political territories.

“You do not need to be governor before you can be in charge. I am the General Commander of the Political Infantry; therefore, I am in charge. So also in FCT. I owe the president to give these two. As far as the election is concerned, you count FCT as a state,” Wike said.

The minister explained that his return to Rivers was primarily to reconnect with his political base and spend time with his family, but acknowledged that the timing also had political significance.

He said he wanted to interact directly with his supporters rather than remain in Abuja and assume that everything was going well politically.

“It’s not about relocating; it’s about coming home to reconnect with my people and talk to them, not taking chances… so that they don’t just sit in Abuja and think everything is going well,” he said.

Wike added that his visit was also motivated by family responsibilities, noting that his parents were still alive and that he needed to spend time with them.

However, he stressed that politics could not be separated from his activities at a time when preparations for the 2027 elections were gathering momentum.

“Politics, of course, this is the time. You want me to fold my hand for Atiku to come and win the election?” he asked.

The former governor also defended his political relevance by pointing to his record in office, particularly the infrastructure projects delivered during his tenure as Rivers State governor.

He cited the completion of 12 flyovers in the state as evidence of his ability to deliver major projects and said his performance in Rivers prepared him for the challenges of governing the FCT.

“I was a governor, not a governor of any other state but governor of Rivers State. People thought I just came. Before harmattan, there was cold. I didn’t just come from zero,” Wike said.

He added that his performance in the FCT was intended to demonstrate that effective governance was possible when leaders were determined to work.

“I came to FCT to prove a point that there’s nothing difficult if you want to work, and whether you agree or not, we’ve been able to change that narrative,” he said.

Wike acknowledged that his assertive approach had attracted criticism and opponents, but said his achievements had also demonstrated his capacity.

“That’s why you have more enemies. If you take first in class, instead of people asking how you did it, some people will say every time he’s proving, as if he’s the only one who can take first. Go and take first; let’s see,” he said.

He maintained that his political influence remained significant, particularly in the FCT, where he claimed his administration had altered the political landscape.

“We have changed the narrative, and that’s why no party will win the president in FCT,” Wike declared.

At one point during the interaction, Wike also stopped journalists from bringing the session to an end, insisting that his comments were important enough to attract national attention.

“Sorry, don’t round up. This story is very important. Without this story, don’t round up. I’m a special person that Nigerians want to listen to,” he said.

His remarks come as political parties and potential presidential contenders intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with Rivers State and the FCT expected to remain important battlegrounds in the emerging political contest.