Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed how the late Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Daniel Orbih, played a major role in his emergence as Governor of Rivers State in 2015.
Wike made the disclosure on Wednesday at a night of tributes held in Abuja in honour of Orbih, who died on August 31, 2026, at the age of 64.
The former Rivers governor said Orbih stood firmly behind his governorship ambition during a difficult period when political opponents allegedly mounted pressure and made attempts to persuade him to withdraw his support.
According to Wike, Orbih, who was the PDP National Vice-Chairman for the South-South at the time, resisted various inducements and remained committed to supporting his political ambition.
“Today I am a Minister of the FCT; yesterday I was a governor. Who did God use for me to become governor? It was Dan,” Wike said.
Wike also recalled that Orbih supported his campaign by donating two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses for security purposes and helping to mobilise political support across the South-South region.
The FCT minister described Orbih as a loyal and selfless politician, noting that the late PDP leader never approached him for contracts or personal favours throughout his eight years as Rivers governor.
Wike said Orbih’s loyalty became most evident during periods of political crisis, describing him as someone who remained dependable despite political disagreements and pressure.
He also called on stakeholders in Edo State to honour Orbih’s contributions to the state’s political development, including consideration for a state burial.
Other speakers at the tribute, including former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and NUPRC Board Chairman Magnus Abe, also highlighted Orbih’s influence on their political careers and described him as a bridge-builder who impacted many people.
Orbih was a prominent PDP chieftain and former National Vice-Chairman of the party’s South-South zone. His death has continued to attract tributes from political leaders across Nigeria.
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