Wike: Orbih Was Instrumental to My Emergence as Rivers Governor

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has credited the late Daniel Orbih with playing a decisive role in his emergence as governor of Rivers State in 2015, saying the former PDP chieftain resisted intense political pressure and inducements to abandon his campaign.

Wike spoke in Abuja on Wednesday at a night of tributes held in honour of Orbih, who served as the Peoples Democratic Party’s National Vice-Chairman for the South South before his death on August 31 at the age of 64.

Reflecting on the political battles surrounding his governorship ambition between 2013 and 2014, Wike described Orbih as the person who remained firmly behind him despite efforts by his opponents to weaken his support.

“Today I am a Minister of the FCT; yesterday I was a governor. Who did God use for me to become governor? It was Dan,” Wike said.

The FCT minister said the then Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, sent people to Orbih with what he described as substantial inducements in an attempt to persuade him to withdraw his support. According to Wike, Orbih rejected the offers and remained committed to his political cause.

Wike also recalled Orbih’s support for his campaign as PDP South South National Vice-Chairman, including the donation of two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses and mobilisation of political structures across the region.

He praised Orbih for what he described as unusual selflessness, saying the late politician never approached him for contracts, patronage or personal benefits throughout his eight years as Rivers governor.

Wike further argued that Orbih’s political influence extended beyond his own ambitions, saying his defence of the South South helped several lawmakers and political figures secure elective positions. He called on stakeholders in Edo State to honour Orbih with a state burial and preserve his political legacy.

Other political figures at the tribute also highlighted Orbih’s influence. Senator Magnus Abe said Orbih introduced him to politics and described him as a bridge builder, while former Edo State governor and serving senator Adams Oshiomhole said Orbih’s opposition helped make him a better governor.

Oshiomhole also acknowledged Wike’s role in helping the two men reconcile after years of political differences. He said the family should take comfort in Orbih’s efforts to promote unity, political engagement and community development.

PDP presidential candidate Sandy Onor described Orbih as a public intellectual, patriot and defender of Edo heritage, while praising his contributions to political and social life in the state.