Wike: Why Ogoni People Will Vote Massively for Tinubu

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike said on Wednesday that Ogoni residents in Rivers State will reward President Bola Tinubu with their votes in the 2027 general elections for establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology in their area.

Speaking at a Rainbow Coalition town hall meeting in Tai Local Government Area, Wike emphasised that Tinubu has also appointed several Ogoni indigenes to key federal positions.

He urged residents to support Tinubu’s re-election bid, highlighting the legislative effort required to secure a federal institution.

Reflecting on the process, Wike stated, “If you don’t know what it is, even me as a minister, it would be difficult to go through the National Assembly. The National Assembly will pass it; it will now go to the President. Sometimes, the bill will stay there for years.”

Wike predicted that the university, secured through the efforts of the late Senator Barry Mpigi, will transform Ogoniland’s economy by creating jobs, driving housing demand, and expanding local trade.

Addressing the community on the long-term impact, Wike noted, “You don’t know what you have because the university just started. By the time this university is four years, five years, then you will know the development.”

He challenged local political leaders to deliver 70 per cent of total votes cast for Tinubu and coalition candidates in upcoming elections.

At the event, Wike also welcomed back political associates after earlier internal disputes, remarking, “Let me first of all welcome my brothers. They didn’t go anywhere. There was no fight; they didn’t go to any other party, but there was a small fight, and so we’ve all come back together to work as a team.”

Tai Local Government Chairman Mbakpone Okpe announced plans to partner with Wike on a real estate project to accommodate university staff and students.

Okpe revealed that the local council has already constructed the university’s entrance gate and a one-kilometre dual carriageway inside the campus to support the project.

He added that the council set aside 100 million naira for a political incentive scheme while working across 10 wards to integrate returning members and mobilise voters.

The town hall also honoured the late Senator Mpigi, who passed away in March 2026, for his role in bringing the institution to Tai.