Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday praised members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for what he described as their courage in defending democratic principles and supporting President Bola Tinubu.
Wike said the lawmakers had demonstrated trust, capacity and strong leadership by standing firm on issues affecting the state, noting that their actions had distinguished them nationally as defenders of democracy.
The former Rivers State governor made the remarks during a visit to the House of Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt, where he met with the legislators.
He urged the lawmakers to continue to uphold what is right, adding that their conduct had shown that the legislature is an independent arm of government and not a department under the executive.
Wike also criticised the actions that led to the withholding of the lawmakers’ entitlements by Governor Siminalayi Fubara prior to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as unfair and undemocratic.
“It is important to come to members of the State House of Assembly to say thank you for what you have done for us and the people of Rivers State,” Wike said. “You stood out in this country as the beacon of democracy. How would elected persons be denied their entitlements simply because they disagreed with you?”
The minister commended the lawmakers’ families for standing by them during the political crisis, stressing that support from spouses and families plays a critical role in public life.
Drawing from his years of political experience, Wike said it was rare to see legislators openly state their positions and stand by them despite pressure, adding that integrity and courage could not always be bought with money.
“Everybody believes money is everything and that you can buy everybody over. But money has a boundary and a limitation,” he said.
He further praised the condition of the Assembly Quarters, describing the environment as neat and well maintained, which he attributed to good leadership.
“I don’t know any state that will say their state assembly quarters are as neat as this. What does it show? Leadership. Once you have the right leadership, things will move well,” Wike added.
He concluded by urging the lawmakers to always acknowledge and appreciate those who supported them, noting that gratitude was essential to sustaining unity and progress.
