Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has said he will support only candidates who align with President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in the forthcoming FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, regardless of party affiliation.
Wike made the remarks in Abuja on Saturday during activities marking the 60th birthday of Senator Sandy Onor.
According to the minister, political loyalty to the president will be a determining factor in his support for candidates contesting in the council poll.
“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.”
Wike said his position transcends party lines, signalling a readiness to work with candidates from any political platform provided they support the president’s second-term ambition.
Speaking on the celebrant, the minister described Onor as a dependable ally and longstanding associate, commending his loyalty and personal integrity.
In a citation read at the event, Anthony Eyang, professor of history, traced Onor’s academic and political journey from the University of Calabar to the Nigerian Senate and into Cross River State politics, describing it as a career marked by scholarship and public service.
Philip Aduda, chairman of the planning committee, said the celebration was a thanksgiving for Onor’s life and contributions both as an academic and politician.
Samuel Ortom, former governor of Benue State, who represented Okezie Ikpeazu, former governor of Abia State and ambassador-designate, described Onor as an icon and a leader prepared for higher responsibility.
Kanu Agabi, former attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, praised Onor as courageous and intellectually grounded, particularly for his defence of constitutional governance.
A festschrift in honour of Onor, presented by Dave Imbua, highlighted his contributions to historical scholarship. The book was unveiled by Ikpeazu on behalf of Wike and associates, alongside a N50 million donation.
In his remarks, Onor said attaining 60 had reinforced the importance of character, excellence and hard work, adding that faith remains central to his life. He thanked family, friends and associates for their support.
