FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Speaks on Political Tensions in Rivers State
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will not interfere with the constitutional duties of the Rivers State House of Assembly, currently led by Martins Amaewhule.
During a Thanksgiving and Civic Reception held in his honor by the NEW Associates in Abalama Town, Kalabari Kingdom, Rivers State, Wike addressed the ongoing political crisis, stating that he is “two wins ahead” of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and expects more victories in the future.
Wike Accuses SSG Danagogo of Fueling the Crisis
Wike blamed the Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, for the turmoil, accusing him of using his elder brother, a judge, to secure an ex parte order against 27 lawmakers.
He claimed that the judge’s ruling, which allowed a budget to be presented to just a few legislators, was the root of the state’s crisis.
According to Wike:
“Danagogo, who wanted to be governor but was not given the chance, is leading this crisis. He is misleading the governor, and they will both fail.”
Tensions with the Ijaw Nation and PANDEF’s Ultimatum
The youth wing of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Wike to retract his alleged disparaging remarks about the Ijaw people.
However, Wike clarified that his words were misinterpreted, insisting that he has always supported unity in Rivers State.
His words:
“It was not about the power of the Ijaw people; it was about working together to produce a governor. No one should associate Ijaw with anything negative.”
Before the event, a group of Kalabari women protested against Wike’s visit, blocking roads and demanding an apology for his comments. Despite this, the Minister proceeded with the event and thanked those who welcomed him.
Political Battle: Wike vs. Fubara
Wike criticized Governor Fubara for allegedly withholding salaries from Assembly members for over a year, leading to the lawmakers’ defection and increased political tensions.
He also dismissed the governor’s advisers as “natural ingrates,” arguing that Fubara surrounded himself with people who once opposed his candidacy.
“This is 2:0, and more wins are coming,” Wike declared, boasting of his political dominance in Rivers State.
PANDEF Warns Tinubu About 2027 Elections
In a related development, PANDEF’s youth wing warned that Wike’s remarks could negatively impact President Bola Tinubu’s political future in the Niger Delta. The group’s president, Doben Donyegha, accused Wike of insulting PANDEF’s late founder, Chief Edwin Clark, even before his burial.
“We demand an apology within 48 hours, or we will take necessary actions. The Niger Delta will not tolerate such disrespect,” Donyegha warned.
The group also called on President Tinubu to remove Wike as FCT Minister and investigate him for alleged misconduct in office.
What’s Next in the Rivers Political Crisis?
As tensions escalate, all eyes are on Rivers State’s political landscape. Will Wike maintain his influence, or will Governor Fubara push back? The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the state’s political future.
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