Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has declared that he will support only candidates aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s vision in the upcoming FCT Area Councils election scheduled for February 21, regardless of party affiliation.
Wike made the statement Saturday night in Abuja during the 60th birthday celebration of Sandy Onor, an event marking six decades of scholarship, leadership, and public service.
According to Dip Connect Online News, the minister said he owed no one an apology for backing Tinubu and pledged to support any candidate who shares the President’s agenda.
“We have the FCT Area Council election coming up on February 21, and I have a duty to support any candidate that supports President Tinubu to win. It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate who is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology on my stand,” Wike stated.
Speaking about the celebrant, Wike described Onor as a credible ally, trustworthy friend, and dependable brother.
Delivering the citation, Anthony Eyang said Onor, born February 14, 1966, in Ikom, Cross River State, was raised in an environment grounded in discipline, community values, and faith. He noted that Onor’s journey—from the lecture halls of the University of Calabar to the Nigerian Senate and into active Cross River politics—reflects a life devoted to learning, leadership, and societal advancement.
Chairman of the planning committee, Philip Aduda, described the event as a thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness in Onor’s life as both an academic and politician.
Former Benue State governor Samuel Ortom, who represented the Chairman of the Occasion, Okezie Ikpeazu, praised Onor as an icon and a great Nigerian prepared for leadership, while former Attorney-General of the Federation Kalu Agabi described him as courageous and intelligent.
Also speaking, Dave Imbua, Head of the Department of History and International Studies at the University of Calabar, presented a Festschrift in honour of Onor, highlighting his contributions as a distinguished historian. The book was unveiled on behalf of Wike and friends, accompanied by a reported ₦50 million contribution.
In his remarks, Onor said turning 60 had reinforced his belief in excellence, character, and hard work, while stressing that life’s achievements are insignificant without divine grace. He expressed gratitude to family, friends, and well-wishers for their support, assuring them that their encouragement would never be taken for granted.
ADEOLA KUNLE
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