Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will support only candidates who back Bola Tinubu's re-election in the forthcoming FCT Area Councils polls, regardless of their political affiliation. Wike made the remarks on Saturday in Abuja during the 60th birthday celebration of Sandy Onor, an event marking six decades of scholarship, leadership and public service by the Cross River politician.
Addressing guests at the ceremony, the FCT minister said he had no regrets about his political position and would openly canvass support for candidates aligned with the president in the February 21 area council elections.
“We have the FCT Area Council election coming up on February 21, and I have a duty to support any candidate that supports President Tinubu to win,” Wike said.
“It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate that is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology for my stand,” he added.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike described the celebrant as a dependable ally and loyal friend. He said Onor had proven his steadfastness, particularly in difficult times.
“That is when you know who a true friend is. I will continue to be with you and work with you because I know that even if I am not alive today, you will not abandon my family,” Wike said.
Presenting the citation, Professor Anthony Eyang traced Onor’s journey from his birth on February 14, 1966, in Ikom, Cross River State, to his academic career at the University of Calabar and eventual rise to the Nigerian Senate, describing it as a life dedicated to learning and service.
Chairman of the planning committee, Philip Aduda, said the event was organised as a thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness in Onor’s life. Former Benue State governor Samuel Ortom, who represented former Abia governor Okezie Ikpeazu, described Onor as an “icon” and a leader well prepared for greater responsibility.
Also speaking, former Attorney General of the Federation, Kalu Agabi, praised the senator’s courage and intellect. “I love Senator Sandy Onor because he is not one of those who stigmatize the constitution as a product of the military. He is a courageous and intelligent man,” Agabi said.
A Festschrift was later unveiled in Onor’s honour, with N50 million raised at the event. In his remarks, the celebrant reflected on his milestone, saying he had learned that excellence and character matter, but stressed that “everything becomes insignificant if the finger of God is absent,” as he thanked supporters for their goodwill.
