Wike Warns APC Scribe Basiru Against “Taking Support for Tinubu for Granted”

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balamd January 5, 2026

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, cautioning him against making statements that could undermine political sensitivities, particularly regarding Rivers State.
Wike, a former Governor of Rivers State, said support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should not be taken for granted, stressing that reckless comments by party officials could spark unnecessary political tensions.
“Don’t take our support for Mr. President for granted. You have to be very careful with the statements you make,” Wike warned.
In a strongly worded remark, the minister cautioned against political interference in Rivers State, declaring the state a “no-go area” for those seeking to stir controversy or test political boundaries.
“When Mr. President comes back, when I see the Minister of Blue Economy, I will tell them to tell him: carry your hand to Rivers State. If your hand burns, don’t say na me burn am,” Wike said, using a popular Nigerian expression to emphasize the consequences of political missteps.
Wike further asserted his political strength in the state, stating unequivocally that he is ready to confront anyone who attempts to destabilize Rivers.
“I can challenge anybody. This state is a no-go area,” he added.
The comments come amid ongoing political realignments and heightened tensions within and across party lines, especially as alliances around President Tinubu’s administration continue to evolve. Wike’s warning is widely seen as a signal that while he supports the President, such support should not be misconstrued as weakness or an open invitation for political provocation.
Political observers say the statement underscores Wike’s enduring influence in Rivers State and his insistence on respect for established political structures, even within the ruling party.