The former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has revealed the voting pattern of the G5 members during the recent National Assembly Leadership Election.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the G5, comprised of five present and past governors, expressed their opposition to Atiku Abubakar as the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming 2023 election due to the party’s zoning arrangement. The group includes Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, as well as former governors Wike, Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia).
Their perceived alliance with President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress has attracted attention and speculation regarding potential defections, although they have denied such severally.
Wike revealed that all members of the G5 backed the selection of Godswill Akpabio as Senate President and Tajudeen Abbas as Speaker of the House of Representatives.
During a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, the former Rivers governor stated that the election of Akpabio, a representative from the South-South region, as Senate President demonstrates Nigerians’ commitment to national unity.
Wike emphasised that the result also indicates President Bola Tinubu’s determination to prevent the polarisation of the country.
Highlighting Akpabio’s qualifications and experience, Wike argued that the Senate President would not preside over a “rubber stamp” assembly.
“I am confident that Akpabio will not be a rubber stamp. I supported him because he also supported me during my gubernatorial campaign,” Wike stated.
“Akpabio is highly competent, qualified, and educated. He possesses exceptional oratory skills that can represent our country effectively. What more qualifications do you require?”
Wike emphasised that both Rivers State and the G5 governors supported Akpabio because they did not want to withdraw their support midway.
He clarified that his decision was based on the nation’s interest rather than political party affiliation, stating that the PDP should not question his position.
Wike advised Akpabio and Abbas not to disappoint Nigerians by being mere “rubber stamps” but also urged them to maintain a cordial relationship with the President.
He explained that avoiding conflicts with the President does not equate to functioning as a “rubber stamp” assembly.
