Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will support only candidates who back President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming FCT Area Councils’ election scheduled for February 21.
Wike made the statement in Abuja on Saturday during the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor, according to a press statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
The Minister said he owed no one an apology for supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid, adding that party affiliation would not determine his support in the council polls.
“We have the FCT Area Council election coming up on February 21 and I have a duty to support any candidate that supports President Tinubu to win,” Wike said.
“It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate that is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology on my stand.”
Speaking on the celebrant, Wike described Onor as a credible ally, trustworthy friend and dependable brother, noting that true friendship is proven in difficult times.
“I will continue to be with you and work with you, because I know even if I am not alive today, you will not abandon my family,” he said.
Reading the citation, Prof. Anthony Eyang said Onor, born on February 14, 1966, in Ikom, Cross River State, rose from academia as a Professor of History to serve in the Nigerian Senate and later played key roles in Cross River politics.
Chairman of the planning committee, Senator Philip Aduda, described the event as a thanksgiving for Onor’s life and contributions as both an academic and politician.
Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, who represented former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, described Onor as an icon and a man prepared for leadership.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Kalu Agabi, praised Onor as courageous and intelligent, noting his firm stance on constitutional issues.
Prof. Dave Imbua presented a festschrift in honour of the celebrant, while Ikpeazu unveiled the book on behalf of Wike and associates with a N50 million donation.
In his remarks, Onor said his 60th year had reinforced the value of excellence, character and hard work, adding that achievements remain insignificant without divine grace.
