The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has shared a revealing look into the personal and political costs of loyalty within Nigeria’s high-stakes political landscape. Speaking over the weekend at a 60th birthday celebration held in Abuja for former Senator Sandy Onor, the Minister detailed the numerous opportunities the lawmaker lost simply for standing by his side.
Wike lamented the challenges Onor faced during his career, particularly how his association with the Minister led to him being sidelined for several top-tier appointments. The Minister recalled a specific instance involving the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) where Onor’s name was put forward for a key role. However, because of Wike’s vocal support for Onor’s governorship ambition at the time, the appointment was reportedly blocked by opposing interests.
The FCT Minister further disclosed that his commitment to rewarding Onor’s steadfastness led him to make significant political sacrifices. When President Bola Tinubu established the South South Development Commission (SSDC), the chairmanship was originally slated for Rivers State. In a gesture of friendship and appreciation for Onor’s past struggles, Wike requested that the position be moved to Cross River State specifically so the former Senator could lead the agency.
However, the road to that appointment was not without its own hurdles. Wike narrated how certain interests in the state attempted to have Onor’s name removed from the list. The Minister stood his ground during the power play, making it clear that if Onor was not going to head the commission, he would reclaim the slot for Rivers State rather than let it go to someone else.
The story highlights the intense behind-the-scenes negotiations that define political appointments in the country. For many guests at the Abuja event, the Minister’s speech provided a rare glimpse into the bond between the two men and the heavy price often paid for political alliances. Readers will continue to follow these developments as the new commission begins its work in the region.
