Heneiken Lokpobiri Opens Up: Wike Facilitated My Appointment as Petroleum Minister
By Wisdom Tide
September 29, 2024
Acknowledging Wike’s Support for the Ijaw People
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, has publicly expressed his deep gratitude to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for his consistent support and love towards the Ijaw people. Lokpobiri, who hails from Bayelsa State, served as the Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development from 2015 to 2019 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking at an event organized by the Ijaw Peoples Congress in Port Harcourt on September 28, 2024, Lokpobiri highlighted the significant role Wike played in his appointment as a minister in the current administration of President Bola Tinubu. The event, held in Rivers State's capital, was a celebration of Wike’s contributions to the political landscape.
Wike's Influence in Lokpobiri’s Ministerial Appointment
During his remarks, Lokpobiri revealed how his journey to becoming the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources was deeply intertwined with Wike’s support. According to him, the process began in Wike’s residence in Port Harcourt and was finalized in Wike's Abuja home. Lokpobiri emphasized that Wike played a direct and instrumental role in his appointment, helping to secure his position in Tinubu’s government.
“It is important to tell you, my brothers and sisters, that me standing before you today as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources was made possible by Nyesom Wike,” Lokpobiri said during the event. “You also heard from the MD of the NDDC, who mentioned that the FCT Minister played a direct role in his own appointment. In my case, it was even more direct. Some of you may not know, but it all started in Wike’s house in Port Harcourt and was concluded in his house in Abuja.”
Completing the History of His Political Journey
Lokpobiri further elaborated on his connection with Wike, acknowledging that the Rivers State politician had been instrumental in not only his recent ministerial appointment but also in supporting his political career over the years. Lokpobiri expressed surprise that his name was not initially mentioned in the welcome address among those who had benefitted from Wike’s influence.
“While reviewing the welcome address, I noticed that my name was not included among those who have benefitted from Wike’s benevolence. I thought my name, Heineken Lokpobiri, would have been listed among those he has helped. But since my name was omitted, I feel it is necessary to complete the story,” he remarked.
Gratitude for Wike’s Long-standing Support
Lokpobiri concluded by reiterating his appreciation for Wike’s continued love and support for the Ijaw people. He emphasized the importance of recognizing Wike as a “brother and friend” to the Ijaw community, underscoring how his relationship with Wike has positively influenced his political trajectory.
With his remarks, Lokpobiri sought to highlight not only his gratitude but also the broader impact Wike has had on the political development of many individuals within the Ijaw community and beyond.
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