“No One Rules Forever” — Wike speaks on power and succession

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said political power is temporary, stressing that no leader remains in authority forever and that everyone will eventually have their turn to serve.

Wike made the remark during a thank-you visit to Port Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he addressed party leaders, traditional rulers, women and youth groups from the council.

The former Rivers governor is currently touring the 23 local government areas of the state to appreciate residents for their support during the 2023 general elections and to mobilise continued backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.

Reflecting on leadership and succession, Wike cautioned against the illusion of permanent power, noting that authority is transient and subject to divine order.

“We should know that today I am a leader; tomorrow it will be your turn too. No one man can be a leader forever,” Wike said.

“It is not possible. God has never allowed that. So, everyone is saying Wike is our leader. As it is today, yes, but it can never be forever.”

He explained that his oft-repeated phrase, “man comes, man goes,” was misunderstood by some, clarifying that it simply emphasises the inevitability of leadership transition.

“What I mean by ‘man comes, man goes’ is that everybody has their own turn. When your time has come, you do whatever you can to the satisfaction of the people and according to the will of God,” he added.

The FCT minister urged political actors to appreciate the principle of succession and show respect to others who would one day assume leadership positions.

“When you understand that a leader’s time will come, somebody will respect you too. Don’t be looking for excuses because no one is perfect,” he said.

Wike further distinguished between good and bad leadership, arguing that the willingness to listen and adapt is critical.

“A bad leader is one who is advised but remains reluctant to change. But a good leader is one who listens to his people,” he stated.

He also described Rivers State as politically unique, claiming it has the capacity to unite leaders across major political divides for a common cause — a strategy he said played a role in producing the current president.

Wike’s comments come amid heightened political tension in Rivers State, as the House of Assembly continues impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, citing alleged financial misconduct and failure to present the 2026 budget.

Most members of the Assembly are widely regarded as loyal to Wike, who has consistently criticised Fubara for allegedly reneging on a peace agreement reached before President Tinubu lifted the emergency rule earlier imposed on the state.

Very Nigerian.

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