Rivers has given PDP highest votes since 1999 and our support is no longer free

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has said that the South-South state will no longer give the Peoples Democratic Party its votes for free. 

In his speech at the inauguration of the new Etche campus of the Rivers State University in Etche LGA of the state on Tuesday September 6, Wike said the state will no longer offer votes without clarity on what it would gain for its support. 

He said; 

“At the appropriate time, we will make a decision on what to do. This is because since 1999 — I want Rivers people to reflect on this, ponder over it, and bring the highest votes to the PDP — I challenge any state to say they brought more votes for the PDP. I challenge any state to say, in terms of support, for the PDP.

“Which state has given more support than Rivers state? Is there anyone? Since 1999, show me one federal project in Rivers state. Is there anyone? So, if you want our votes, then tell me what you will give Rivers people. Our votes are not for dash anymore.”

Wike also recounted how he refused to support President Muhammadu Buhari’s election bid in 2019. 

He added; 

“This (federal) government fought us, but we survived it. Most of them who are talking now, if this federal government had descended on them, most of them would have crumbled.

“They were going to negotiate with Buhari in 2019; that was how Buhari won election. They came to me, I said no negotiation; PDP must win.”