Nyesom Wike Accuses Odili of Backing Fubara to Disobey Tinubu

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused Peter Odili, a former Governor of Rivers State, of undermining President Bola Tinubu by allegedly encouraging Governor Siminalayi Fubara to disobey the President. Nyesom Wike’s statement comes amidst ongoing tensions between his political camp and Governor Fubara, which have resulted in a fractured peace agreement initially brokered by President Tinubu.

The peace accord, an eight-point deal signed in 2023 at a meeting in the Presidential Villa, aimed to resolve the growing rift between Wike and Fubara. However, the truce quickly unraveled. Governor Fubara alleged that he was coerced into signing the agreement, while Odili criticized Nyesom Wike for prioritizing personal ambitions over the state’s interests. Odili, speaking in Port Harcourt, commended Fubara for resisting Wike’s purported attempts to dominate Rivers State politics.

Nyesom Wike Defends Legacy, Questions Odili’s Role

During a stakeholders’ reception in Port Harcourt, Nyesom Wike fired back at Odili, refuting claims that he sought to convert Rivers State into his personal estate. The FCT Minister maintained that his administration’s achievements positioned him as the best governor in the state’s history. He also accused Odili of undermining the peace process initiated by President Tinubu.

“How did I convert Rivers State into a personal estate?” Nyesom Wike queried. He added, “I am the best governor Rivers State has ever produced. Instead of resolving issues, Odili has encouraged Fubara to defy the President’s directives.” Wike further criticized Odili’s failure to provide updates on the peace agreement’s implementation and accused him of misleading Governor Fubara.

Wike’s remarks were directed at a gathering that included Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, signaling his intention to consolidate political alliances outside Rivers State.

Nyesom Wike Admits Anti-Party Activities, Justifies Support for Tinubu

Nyesom Wike acknowledged his deliberate opposition to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general elections. He admitted to actively working against Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate, and Uche Secondus, the party’s former chairman. The FCT Minister defended his actions, citing the need to support a southern presidential candidate.

“In 2023, I refused to support Atiku because I am not a second-class citizen. I chose to support Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Wike stated. He emphasized his unbroken electoral record, boasting of his consistent ability to deliver victories for himself and his allies. “I have never lost an election, and nobody I’ve supported has lost,” he added.

Wike’s statements underline his loyalty to President Tinubu, urging Nigerians to rally behind the President as he implements tough but necessary reforms.

Magnus Abe Joins the Debate, Criticizes Pro-Fubara Politicians

Magnus Abe, a former Senator representing Rivers South-East, also weighed in on the political crisis. He accused Governor Fubara’s supporters of deliberately undermining Wike’s influence in the state. Abe openly admitted to participating in anti-party activities during the 2023 elections, stating that many Rivers politicians, including Wike and Fubara, had similarly defied the PDP.

“In the last election, everyone in Rivers State engaged in anti-party activities,” Abe remarked. He noted that even Fubara, despite his allegiance to the PDP, sided with Wike and worked against the party’s presidential candidate. Abe’s comments highlight the deep-seated divisions within the Rivers State political landscape and underscore the complexities of loyalty in Nigerian politics.

As the battle for control over Rivers State politics intensifies, Wike’s allegations and the fractured peace deal underscore the challenges facing President Tinubu’s administration in mediating disputes among key allies.

Call for Resolution: A Path Forward for Rivers State

The ongoing feud between Wike and Fubara continues to undermine governance in Rivers State, a critical economic hub for Nigeria. Political analysts and stakeholders have called for an urgent resolution to the crisis. “The political gladiators must sheathe their swords and prioritize the development of Rivers State,” a prominent commentator noted.

With Rivers State’s economic significance to Nigeria, resolving this conflict is imperative to restore stability and ensure that governance remains focused on addressing the needs of the people. The nation watches closely as the warring factions grapple with the challenges of reconciliation.