God used Dan Orbih to make me Rivers governor — Wike
Wike Honors Late Daniel Orbih, Credits Him for Political Success
Abuja – Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), praised the late Chief Daniel Orbih for his significant role in Wike’s ascent to the governorship of Rivers State in 2015. Wike’s remarks came during a tribute event held in Abuja on Wednesday, honoring Orbih, who served as the National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South region.
Orbih, who was 64, passed away on August 31, leaving behind a legacy of political influence in Edo State. Wike emphasized the moral and political fortitude Orbih displayed during a challenging political climate from 2013 to 2014, a period marked by attempts from adversaries to undermine Wike’s gubernatorial aspirations.
“Today I am a Minister of the FCT; yesterday I was a governor. Who did God use for me to become governor? It was Dan,” Wike stated. He explained that during his campaign, Orbih faced enormous pressure and inducements to withdraw his support but remained steadfast.
“There was nothing in this world that was not done to induce him,” Wike recalled, noting that previous political conflicts included attempts by the then-sitting governor of Rivers State to persuade Orbih to change his allegiance.
Despite these challenges, Wike highlighted Orbih’s invaluable contributions, including the donation of two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses to enhance his campaign’s security and a robust mobilization efforts throughout the region.
Wike characterized Orbih as a politician unlike any other. “Throughout my eight years as governor, he never came for one day—either by phone or coming to my house to say, ‘I need this contract.’ Never,” Wike remarked. He attributed Orbih’s loyalty to his family heritage, stating that genuine political reliability emerges in times of crisis.
The FCT minister further asserted that Orbih’s influence as National Vice-Chairman was crucial for many current lawmakers’ success, asserting that his strategic foresight fostered collaboration across party lines in Edo State.
Wike called for a state burial for Orbih in recognition of his significant contributions to the region’s political landscape and committed to maintaining strong ties with Orbih’s family to preserve his legacy.
Other political figures also honored Orbih during the event. Senator Magnus Abe, Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, stated that Orbih was instrumental in his entry into politics, having been his campaign director in earlier elections.
“Dan was indeed a bridge builder par excellence,” Abe noted, emphasizing the impact Orbih had on those around him.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North and a former governor of Edo, shared his personal gratitude towards Orbih for shaping his governance approach. “Dan helped me to be a better governor,” Oshiomhole said, acknowledging the lessons he learned from their political interactions.
Senator Sandy Onor, the PDP presidential candidate, described Orbih as a passionate advocate for the Edo people and a committed family man. “Dan was a great man by every measure,” Onor stated, joining others in commemorating Orbih’s contributions to the region and the nation.
The tributes underscored Orbih’s enduring legacy in Nigerian politics, revealing the profound connections he forged and the impact he made on his colleagues and constituents. (NAN)
