Wike Stood By Me When I Was Politically Isolated,.Confesses Oshiomhole
By Rachel Akper
Former Edo State Governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has commended Nyesom Wike for standing by him during a period of political isolation following his removal as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Oshiomhole made the statement on Monday in Benin City, Edo State, during the handover of 54 construction equipment to the 18 local government areas of the state. He used the occasion to reflect on the political events that followed his exit as APC national chairman in 2020.
The former APC chairman said that after he was removed from office, many members of his party distanced themselves from him, leaving him feeling abandoned and lonely politically.
He noted that some associates avoided visiting him for fear of being accused of engaging in anti-party activities.
“After I was dismissed as APC National Chairman, I became lonely, abandoned by my own party. People were afraid to visit me then because it could be termed anti-party,” Oshiomhole said.
He explained that Wike reached out to him at a critical time, describing the FCT minister as a rare Nigerian politician who values personal relationships beyond party lines. According to him, Wike invited him to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he was given the opportunity to commission a flyover project.
Oshiomhole also disclosed that Wike later honoured him with one of the highest recognitions from the Rivers State Government House, describing the gesture as one that restored his morale during a difficult period.
He further said that although Wike had jokingly told him he had once celebrated his political misfortune, the minister’s friendship helped him regain confidence.
“So, if I dey do yanga, it’s because I have a minister that can identify with me when I was removed from my job,” he said in Pidgin English.
The former governor also praised Wike’s leadership performance, particularly referencing his influence in recent political contests in the Federal Capital Territory. He said Wike’s political party finishing second in elections in some areas still showed strong leadership performance.
Oshiomhole also described Wike as one of the most impactful ministers from the South-South geopolitical zone to serve in Abuja, saying his development approach has helped redefine urban governance and infrastructure delivery in the FCT.
The remarks have continued to generate political discussions, with analysts saying the comments may reflect ongoing political realignments ahead of future elections.
Both Oshiomhole and Wike remain influential political figures in Nigeria’s political landscape, and observers say their relationship could shape future political alliances.
