Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has challenged the people of Evo Kingdom to identify tangible development projects or political empowerment attracted to the area by former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi during his 24 years in top political positions.
Wike made the remarks while addressing leaders and stakeholders of Evo Kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
He said political leaders should use their positions to develop human capacity, empower others and create opportunities for younger leaders, rather than monopolising power.
Wike questioned what Amaechi, who served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, governor and minister, achieved for Evo Kingdom and Rivers State during his years in public office.
“Someone was Speaker of the House of Assembly for eight years, Governor for eight years, and Minister for eight years—that is 24 years in top leadership positions! What can anybody point to that he attracted to Evo Kingdom or Rivers State in all those 24 years? Nothing! Not one single thing!” Wike said.
The FCT minister said he could account for projects he attracted to Rivers State during his time as Minister of State for Education, arguing that political leadership should leave a lasting legacy.
He also said he had no further personal political ambitions, noting that he had served as governor and minister twice and could not return to either position.
“After all, what do I want that God has not given to me? Nothing! Nothing! Nothing! The only thing I ask from God today is to continue to give me long life,” he said.
Wike said his focus was now on supporting younger leaders and ensuring that political structures continued after their leaders left office.
He also urged politicians not to place absolute trust in human promises, saying only God could guarantee that people would not disappoint them.
“As a politician, I know that the only person who will not disappoint is God,” Wike said.
Wike further recalled that his administration had restructured the chieftaincy institution to give Evo Kingdom adequate representation on the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers.
Political leaders and traditional rulers, including Eze Temple Ejekwu and President of the Evo Assembly, Elder Peter Chinwo, assured Wike of their support for President Bola Tinubu and other candidates endorsed by the Rainbow Coalition.