Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will support only candidates who align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision, regardless of political party, in the FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21.
Wike made the statement on Saturday night in Abuja during the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor, an event marking six decades of scholarship, leadership, service, and societal impact.
The Minister, who emphasized that he owed no one an apology for backing Tinubu, vowed to support any candidate aligned with the President.
“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, and I owe no apology for my stand,” Wike said.
Onor, the celebrant, was praised by Wike as a “credible ally, a trustworthy friend, and a good brother.” Wike added, “I will continue to be with you and work with you, because I know even if I am not alive today, you will not abandon my family.”
Prof. Anthony Eyang, reading the citation for Onor, highlighted his life journey, from his upbringing in Ikom, Cross River, born on Feb. 14, 1966, to his academic achievements at the University of Calabar and eventual role in the Nigerian Senate. Eyang described Onor’s life as “devoted to learning, leadership, and societal advancement.”
Senator Philip Aduda, Chairman of the planning committee, described the event as a thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness in Onor’s life. Former Governor of Benue State, Mr. Samuel Otom, standing in for the Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, lauded Onor as an “icon, a great Nigerian, and a man fit for leadership.”
Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Kalu Agabi (SAN), praised Onor for his courage and intellect, adding, “I love Sen. Sandy Onor because he respects the constitution and does not stigmatize it as a product of the military.”
Prof. Dave Imbua, Head of the Department of History and International Studies at the University of Calabar, presented a Festschrift, a scholarly book honoring Onor, highlighting his enduring contributions as a historian. The book, unveiled by Ikpeazu on behalf of Wike and friends, reportedly involved a N50 million contribution.
In his remarks, Onor reflected on reaching 60, emphasizing the value of excellence, character, and hard work. He added, “Everything becomes insignificant if the finger of God is absent in one’s life,” and expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and well-wishers for their support.
NAN
