FCT poll: Only candidates backing Tinubu will get my support — Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will throw his weight behind only those candidates who share and promote President Bola Tinubu’s agenda in the forthcoming FCT Area Council elections slated for February 21, regardless of party affiliation.

Wike made this known on Saturday night in Abuja at the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor, marking six decades of what organisers described as scholarship, leadership, service, and impact.

The FCT Minister maintained that he has no regrets about backing Tinubu and reaffirmed his readiness to support any aspirant who aligns with the President’s vision.

“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.

“It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate who is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology on my stand,”* Wike said.

Paying tribute to the celebrant, Wike portrayed Onor as a dependable associate and loyal companion, describing him as a “credible ally, a trustworthy friend, and good brother.”

He added that Onor’s loyalty is steadfast even in challenging times, saying: “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.”

In his citation, Prof. Anthony Eyang recounted that Onor was born on February 14, 1966, in Ikom, Cross River State, and grew up in a setting shaped by discipline, faith, and strong communal values.

According to Eyang, Onor’s progression from the classrooms of the University of Calabar to the Nigerian Senate and into the political landscape of Cross River demonstrates “a life devoted to learning, leadership, and the advancement of society.”

Chairman of the planning committee, Senator Philip Aduda, explained that the gathering served as a thanksgiving to God for sustaining Onor through his academic and political journey.

Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, who represented the Chairman of the Occasion, Okezie Ikpeazu—a former Governor of Abia State and Ambassador-designate—praised Onor as an “icon,” a distinguished Nigerian, and a leader well-prepared for higher responsibilities. He further described him as a “good man.”

Also speaking, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Kalu Agabi (SAN), commended Onor’s bravery and intellect. “I love Sen. Sandy Onor because he is not one of those who stigmatise the constitution as a product of the military,” he said.

Prof. Dave Imbua, Head of the Department of History and International Studies at the University of Calabar, presented a Festschrift compiled in honour of the senator, noting that Onor remains a respected historian within academic circles.

The commemorative publication was formally unveiled by Ikpeazu on behalf of Wike and associates, with a reported donation of N50 million to support the project.

In his response, Onor reflected on turning 60, stating that he has come to understand the value of excellence and integrity, adding that diligence ultimately yields results.

He cautioned, however, that “everything becomes insignificant if the finger of God is absent in one’s life.”

The senator expressed appreciation to his family, associates, and supporters for standing by him over the years, assuring them that their goodwill and encouragement would always be cherished.

(NAN)