Tinubu’s ‘On Your Mandate’ Singers Were Silent in 2023 — Wike

Abuja — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at politicians and political supporters who now publicly praise President Bola Tinubu, saying many of them were nowhere to be found during the 2023 presidential election.

Wike made the remark while speaking at a public event in Abuja, where he questioned the sincerity of those he described as “newly found supporters” of the President.

According to the former Rivers State governor, many of the individuals currently chanting “on your mandate” in support of Tinubu did not stand by him when it mattered most during the intense political contest that led to the 2023 elections.

“Most of the people singing ‘on your mandate’ today were silent in 2023,” Wike said. “They did not come out when the battle was tough. Now that victory has been secured, everyone wants to be seen as a loyal supporter.

Wike, a key ally of President Tinubu, stressed that political loyalty should be measured by actions taken during critical moments, not by public displays after success has been achieved.

He also urged politicians to be honest in their support and avoid hypocrisy, noting that leadership requires courage, commitment and consistency.

The FCT minister’s comments have since sparked reactions across political circles, with many interpreting the statement as a subtle jab at members of the opposition and some ruling party figures who distanced themselves from Tinubu during the electioneering period.

President Tinubu, who won the 2023 presidential election, has continued to receive endorsements and public praise from political actors across party lines since assuming office.