Wike: Orbih Rejected Pressure, Inducements to Abandon My 2015 Rivers Governorship Bid

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has said the late Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Vice-Chairman, South South, Chief Daniel Orbih, rejected repeated pressure and inducements to abandon his support for Wike’s 2015 Rivers State governorship ambition.
Wike made the disclosure on Wednesday in Abuja during a night of tributes held in honour of Orbih, who died on August 31 at the age of 64.
The former Rivers governor recalled that Orbih remained loyal to him during a difficult political period between 2013 and 2014, despite attempts by Wike’s political opponents to frustrate his ambition.
Wike said the then Rivers governor sent people to Orbih with offers aimed at persuading him to withdraw his support. He quoted Orbih as standing firm despite the pressure, saying, “No, I will not accept, I will not agree.”
The FCT minister described Orbih as the person God used to pave the way for his emergence as Rivers governor in 2015. He said the late politician went beyond political backing by strengthening his campaign and security arrangements, including donating two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses.
Wike also credited Orbih with mobilising political structures across the South South in support of his ambition. He described him as a politician who prioritised loyalty and service over personal benefits, saying Orbih never approached him for contracts or favours during his eight years as governor.
He further said Orbih played an important role in protecting the political interests of the South South and that many politicians currently holding elective positions benefited from his efforts. Wike urged Edo stakeholders to consider giving Orbih a state burial and pledged to maintain his relationship with the late politician’s family.
Other speakers also highlighted Orbih’s political influence. Senator Magnus Abe said Orbih introduced him to politics and described him as a bridge builder, while former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole said Orbih’s opposition helped make him a better governor despite their political differences. Oshiomhole also thanked Wike for helping reconcile them. Former PDP presidential candidate Senator Sandy Onor described Orbih as a public intellectual, patriot, family man and defender of Edo heritage.