General Ibrahim Babangida, a former military president of Nigeria has commended the guts and courage of Nyesom Wike, the Governor of Rivers State.
The former military leader who gave the commendation at his Minna residence, Niger State when the PDP governors paid him visit on Monday said he saluted Governor for his belief in the unity of Nigeria.
“I have been in your political life for quite sometime. I remember when you accompanied Dr Peter Odili here in 2000, when you were an elected Local Government Chairman,” General Babagida told Wike.
He charged him and others to ensure that the PDP retrieve power from the ruling APC in the forthcoming general elections.
“This is the season of politics. I have been more in it than my brother General Abdulsalami. He is neutral and playing a stabilising role in the conduct of peaceful elections in Nigeria,” he said.
“Nigeria is the first thing in terms of patriotism. When some of your colleagues came here, I gave them that charge; to help sustain the unity of the country.”
“Like you said, Mr. Project, poverty is not written on any one’s face to determine his ethnicity, religion or other considerations. Poverty does not know race, tribe or religion. And like I used to say, bullets don’t differentiate also on the basis of religion, tribe or race.”
“I want to see your great party coming back to take over power. We will give you the support to achieve your political goal. With younger generation which you represent, I am sure the country will survive.”
Governor Wike is making consultations after declaring his intention to run for the post of president in 2023.
General Babangida urged him to keep the PDP strong and united, warning him against the ruling party.
“My only caution is that you are dealing with another party, the ruling APC. We know what will happen. I know you are bold, courageous and have performed in your state.”
“You have guts which is what a leader needs to take certain decisions for the good of the country. I follow happenings in your state, that’s why I called you Mr. Project a while ago. Get the party together. I am giving you my blessing, but please continue to help keep the party together.”
“Keep the party strong, united so that it becomes the symbol of Nigeria.”
