Amid the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has openly criticized the state’s elders and traditional rulers for their perceived inaction in restoring peace.
Speaking at a thanksgiving event in Port Harcourt on Friday, Wike questioned the sincerity and efforts of these leaders since the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu over a month ago.
“One month and seven days after Mr. President, in his wisdom, declared a state of emergency to save Rivers State from anarchy, I challenge any so-called Rivers elder, even the traditional rulers, what attempt have they made to bring total peace?”
Wike emphasized that mere public criticisms and protests would not bring about the desired reconciliation. He stated, “No amount of going to television to abuse anybody will bring peace because we have always said there are those who thrive in crisis. When there’s crisis, they are happy; when there is no crisis, there will be no food on the table. These people cannot be real elders.”
The FCT Minister also condemned recent protests involving women, describing them as embarrassing and ineffective. “There’s no need of embarrassing our women to be naked outside. No amount of such can bring peace, no amount of such blackmail can bring peace. What can bring peace is for you to humble yourself and say, ‘For the interest of the state, I want everybody to work together.'”
Wike revealed that while some individuals have approached him in the name of peace, genuine reconciliation requires the involvement of all critical stakeholders. “I told our leaders, yes, some people have tried to approach me. As a man of peace, I received them; I did not pursue them. But seeing me alone does not bring peace; there are critical stakeholders that must be involved in this process of peace-making.”
The political turmoil in Rivers State escalated following a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.
In response to the crisis and incidents of pipeline vandalism, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency on March 18, suspending the governor, his deputy, and the state legislature for six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as the state’s administrator during this period.
