Wike Salutes PDP National Secretary Sam Daddy at 60

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has praised Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing him as a man of honour, integrity, and strong moral character.

Wike made these remarks on Saturday in Abuja during the celebration of Senator Anyanwu’s 60th birthday, which coincided with the public presentation of a commemorative book titled “Sam Daddy in My Eyes.” The event attracted a large gathering of political associates, friends, and well-wishers, underscoring the popularity and goodwill Senator Anyanwu enjoys.

Speaking at the occasion, Wike, through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, congratulated the PDP scribe on his milestone birthday and his recent affirmation as the substantive National Secretary of the party. He assured Anyanwu of his unwavering support, regardless of the political climate.

“My friends and I celebrate your 60th birthday and your affirmation as the substantive National Secretary of our great party, the PDP,” Wike stated. “The overwhelming turnout here today is a testament to your standing as a man of the people.”

Reaffirming his solidarity with Anyanwu, Wike continued, “For people like us, we will always stand by you. We will remain with you no matter what people say. You have earned your victory, so walk tall and proud. You owe no one an apology, and you are not obliged to honour any unsolicited invitation.”

The FCT Minister emphasized that a person who has emerged victorious in a political struggle should not be expected to go pleading. “You don’t fight a war, win, and then go begging. If anyone must talk, let them come to you. You have people like me standing by your side—so there’s no need to fear. We’ve won before, and we’ll win again,” he declared.

In his typically forthright manner, Wike added a colloquial touch: “When it pains them, it sweetens us. And when it sweetens us, it pains them.”

Wike also took the opportunity to reflect on the value of character, insisting that integrity, not wealth or status, defines a person. “What truly makes a man is his character—not how much money he has or the food he shares. If you lack character, then to hell with your wealth.”

The minister recalled a candid conversation he had with Senator Anyanwu during the internal crisis over the party secretary position. He said he had warned him about the challenges ahead and urged him to remain resolute amid mounting pressures.

“I told him clearly, ‘If you know you can’t withstand the heat, say so now. You’ll be going up against powerful figures, including governors. If you’re not consistent, you’ll not only lose the battle, but you’ll suffer the consequences.’ He assured me then that he would stand firm—and he did,” Wike narrated.

He criticized certain individuals within the party for their lack of principle, saying, “Some people are never consistent. What they say in the morning is different from what they say in the afternoon, and by night, it changes again.”

Lauding Anyanwu for his consistency and courage, Wike commended him for staying true to his words despite political adversities. “I admire people who are consistent. You have proven, by recent events, that you are a man who keeps his word.”

He also extended appreciation to former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, for endorsing Anyanwu’s steadfastness. “When people like Saraki attest to your integrity, it speaks volumes.”

Wike concluded his remarks by referencing a conversation with Senator Anyanwu’s mother. “She called me and said, ‘My son, I’m proud that people like you make firm decisions and refuse to be disgraced.’ That’s the essence of true character. And character is not something you can buy in the marketplace.”