RismadarVoice Reporters
October 8, 2026
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said the late Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Chief Daniel Osi Orbih, rejected attempts to persuade him to withdraw his support for Wike’s governorship ambition in Rivers State.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during a night of tributes in Abuja for Orbih, a former PDP National Vice-Chairman for the South-South, who died on August 31 at the age of 64.
The FCT minister said Orbih played a significant role in his political journey and remained supportive during the political struggle that preceded his emergence as Rivers State governor in 2015.
According to Wike, the then Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, sent people to Orbih and made offers aimed at persuading him to withdraw his support.
Wike said Orbih rejected the approaches and remained committed to his governorship bid despite the political pressure surrounding the contest.
He recalled that Orbih, who held a senior PDP leadership position in the South-South at the time, also supported his campaign with two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses and helped mobilise political support.
Wike described the late politician as a loyal friend who placed relationships above personal benefits.
He said Orbih never approached him for contracts or personal favours throughout his eight years as governor of Rivers State.
The minister also credited Orbih with supporting the political advancement of several people and defending what he considered the interests of the South-South.
Wike called for a state burial for Orbih, citing his contributions to politics and bridge-building in Edo State, and pledged to maintain his relationship with the late politician’s family.
Also paying tribute, Senator Magnus Abe described Orbih as a bridge builder who played an important role in his entry into politics and subsequent political career.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, said Orbih’s role as an opposition figure challenged him to perform better while he was governor.
Oshiomhole also acknowledged Wike’s role in helping reconcile him with Orbih after years of political differences.
Other speakers at the event paid tribute to Orbih’s political career, family life and contributions to public affairs in Edo State and the South-South.
