Wike Loyalists Plan Statewide Shutdown In Rivers To Celebrate Minister’s Birthday

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – A massive celebration is planned for Friday in Rivers State, potentially bringing the state capital, Port Harcourt, to a standstill, as loyalists, associates, and friends of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, mark his birthday.

The event aims to showcase Wike’s enduring political influence in the state amidst ongoing political tensions.

Multiple groups, including a newly formed movement called “NEW Associates” (an acronym derived from the Minister’s name), are spearheading the celebrations.

Other participating organisations include the Wikematic Youths, Wikematic Women, and the Rivers Ijaw Progressive Congress (RIPCO).

The event is expected to draw significant attendance, with Wike’s supporters travelling from within and outside the country.

Senator George Thompson Sekibo, convener of the NEW Associates, confirmed the preparations, stating that a public lecture titled “Pragmatic Strides of a Visionary Leader and Contemporary Issues of Society” will kick off the celebrations.

The event will also highlight Wike’s political career, from his time as Governor to his current ministerial role.

High-profile guests are expected, including the Senate President as Special Guest of Honour, former NBA President OCJ Okocha as a Special Guest of Honour, and Professor Julius Ihonvbere as the Guest Lecturer.

Sekibo emphasised the significance of the event, stating that it will demonstrate the unwavering loyalty to Wike despite recent political challenges.

He described the Minister as the “indisputable leader of Rivers politics” and called on all supporters to attend the birthday celebration.

The planned scale of the celebrations has raised concerns about potential disruptions to daily life in Port Harcourt and across Rivers State.

Authorities have yet to comment publicly on the planned event and any potential security measures.

The planned shutdown highlights the significant political weight Wike continues to hold in his home state.