As the word of words between the Progressives Governors Forum, PGF, chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, continues to rage, The Abuja Inquirer recalls what the governor said of the minister at his thanksgiving service in June 2023.
Wike, who is serving in the APC-led Federal Government, has been promoting a Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
In the late hours of Monday night, the Chairman of the APC’s Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, in an indirect attack at Wike said the ruling party governors would not support any alliance or political arrangement capable of undermining the re-election of President Tinubu or weakening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, Wike defended his Rainbow Coalition, insisting that the alliance was aimed at supporting President Tinubu while strengthening the opposition Peoples Democratic Party against the APC in other electoral contests.
He said his support for Tinubu did not amount to supporting APC candidates across the states, stressing that he remained free to support candidates of his choice.
Amidst the fireworks, here’s what Uzodinma said in 2023; “Today, I led a delegation of Governors as we joined other notable dignitaries to the Thanksgiving Service of my brother, H.E. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike – CON, GSSRS at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Port Harcourt.
“Former Governor Wike performed outstandingly during his eight years’ tenure as the Governor of Rivers State and as he offered thanksgiving to God Almighty for the successful completion of his tenure, I joined the league of well-wishers to congratulate him and pray for God’s continued blessings in his endeavours.”
Analysts say the latest political rivalry is not only because Wike is sponsoring governorship candidates in APC controlled states, but positioning for vice presidential ticket in 2031 when the Presidency moves to the north then.
