Minister of the Federal Capital Territory [Nyesom Wike](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyesom_Wike) told a tribute ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday that the late [Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peoples_Democratic_Party_(Nigeria)) South‑South vice‑chairman, [Daniel Orbih](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Orbih), refused several inducements aimed at making him abandon his support for Wike’s 2015 governorship ambition in Rivers State.
Wike disclosed the remarks while honoring Orbih, who died on 31 August at the age of 64. He said Orbih stayed steadfast during a turbulent political period between 2013 and 2014, even as opponents tried to undermine Wike’s aspirations.
**What inducements were offered?**
Wike recounted that the then‑governor of Rivers State dispatched emissaries to Orbih with promises of material benefits. “There was nothing in this world that was not done to induce him. My governor then sent people to Dan, offered him everything in this world, but Dan stood firm and said, ‘No, I will not accept, I will not agree,’” he quoted.
**How did Orbih support the 2015 campaign?**
According to Wike, Orbih not only provided political backing but also bolstered campaign logistics and security, donating two bullet‑proof Mercedes‑Benz buses. He further mobilised party structures across the South‑South region to rally behind Wike’s candidacy.
**What character traits did Wike attribute to Orbih?**
Wike described Orbih as a politician driven by loyalty and service rather than personal gain, noting that during his eight‑year tenure as governor, Orbih never approached him for contracts or favours. “Dan is not a typical Nigerian politician. Throughout my eight years as governor, he never came for one day, either by phone or coming to my house to say, ‘I need this contract.’ Never,” Wike asserted.
Other speakers at the event echoed similar sentiments. Senator Magnus Abe, Chairman of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, said Orbih was instrumental in introducing him to politics and acted as a bridge‑builder whose influence crossed party lines. Former Edo State governor and Senator Adams Oshiomhole acknowledged that Orbih’s input helped him become a better governor, even though they were political rivals, and recalled reconciling with Orbih at Wike’s Port Harcourt residence. Former PDP presidential candidate Senator Sandy Onor praised Orbih as a public intellectual, patriot, family man and defender of Edo heritage, emphasizing his lasting impact on the community.
Wike concluded by urging Edo State stakeholders to consider granting Orbih a state burial, promising to keep close ties with his family and to preserve his political legacy.