Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has chosen to delay his response to a statement from a group of prominent Rivers State elders who expressed their dissatisfaction with his remarks about former Governor Peter Odili and current Governor Siminialayi Fubara.
Gists9ja reports that the elders, including notable figures like Celestine Omehia, Tele Ikuru, and Prince Uche Secondus, recently issued a joint statement criticizing Wike’s comments as divisive and unwarranted. However, Wike, through his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Lere Olayinka, dismissed their concerns, labeling the group as “opportunistic political contractors.”
Wike Dismisses Elders’ Criticism
In his statement, Wike did not mince words, accusing the elders of benefitting from political betrayals. “There is no time to dignify any committee of opportunistic political contractors who are busy withdrawing from the Rivers’ ATM of betrayal that they never wanted in the first place,” he remarked.
He hinted at addressing the issue in the future, saying, “At the appropriate time, the message will be made very clear to them and their ATM. For now that the alawee is still flowing, they should enjoy it.”
Festive Engagements in Rivers State
Despite the controversy, Wike was actively engaged in the New Year celebrations in Rivers State, visiting political allies and long-standing associates.
Among his stops was a visit to Dame Hannah Aguma, the widow of late political figure Chief Emmanuel Aguma, as well as His Majesty Eze Ohna Serg Awuse, the Paramount Ruler of Emohua Kingdom. He also attended a New Year event hosted by former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, OCJ Okocha, SAN.
Context of the Dispute
The tension stems from Wike’s comments during recent public appearances where he allegedly criticized governance styles and political decisions in Rivers State. These remarks reportedly offended the elders, who viewed them as a direct attack on Governor Fubara and his administration.
What Lies Ahead
While Wike’s decision to defer his full response suggests a strategic approach, his firm stance indicates he intends to confront the elders’ criticism head-on when the time is right. His ongoing political engagements in Rivers State, coupled with his influence as FCT Minister, suggest that the dynamics of Rivers State politics will remain in the spotlight in the coming months.
Observers are watching closely to see how this feud unfolds and its potential impact on Rivers State’s political landscape, particularly as alliances and loyalties are tested ahead of the next election cycle.
