The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will back only candidates who align with the vision of President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21.
Wike made his position known on Saturday night in Abuja during the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor, describing his stance as a matter of duty rather than party loyalty. According to him, political affiliation will not influence his decision, what matters is support for the President’s agenda.
“With the FCT Area Council election coming up, I have a responsibility to support any candidate who stands with President Tinubu,” Wike said. “Likewise, it is my duty to ensure that those who do not share his vision do not emerge victorious. I make no apologies for this position.”
The minister also used the occasion to pay glowing tribute to the celebrant, whom he described as a dependable friend and trusted ally. Wike praised Onor’s loyalty and expressed confidence in his steadfastness even in challenging times.
In a citation read at the event, Prof. Anthony Eyang traced Onor’s journey from his early life in Ikom, Cross River State, to his academic achievements and eventual rise to national politics. From the lecture halls of the University of Calabar to the Senate chamber, Onor was portrayed as a man dedicated to scholarship, leadership, and public service.
Chairman of the planning committee, Senator Philip Aduda, described the event as a thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness in Onor’s life, both as an academic and as a politician.
Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, who represented former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu at the ceremony, hailed Onor as an icon and a man well-prepared for leadership.
Also speaking, former Attorney General of the Federation, Kalu Agabi, commended Onor’s courage and intellect, noting that he is among those who defend the nation’s constitution rather than dismiss it as a relic of military rule.
Highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a Festschrift, a collection of scholarly writings in honour of Onor presented by Prof. Dave Imbua of the University of Calabar. The book was unveiled on behalf of Wike and his associates, with a reported N50 million donation announced in support of the project.
In his remarks, Onor reflected on life at 60, saying he had come to understand the importance of excellence, character, and hard work. However, he stressed that human effort alone is not enough.
“Everything becomes insignificant if the finger of God is absent in one’s life,” he said, expressing gratitude to family, friends, and well-wishers for their unwavering support over the years.
Advertisement
