Rivers: Odili Has Reduced Himself to Ridiculous Level – Wike’s Aide

Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Lere Olayinka, has criticized former Rivers State Governor Dr. Peter Odili over comments aimed at Wike. Olayinka described Odili’s remarks as disappointing, accusing him of abandoning statesmanship for what he termed “ridiculous partisanship.”

In a statement on Saturday night, Olayinka hinted that Wike would provide a detailed response to Odili’s assertions in due course. This development underscores the escalating political tension between key figures in Rivers State, as former allies continue to spar publicly.

Olayinka: Odili’s Remarks Reflect Loss of Statesmanship

Reacting to Dr. Odili’s comments, Olayinka expressed profound disappointment in the former governor, whom he accused of abandoning the role of an elder statesman. According to Olayinka, Odili’s criticisms of Wike lacked merit and reflected a disturbing descent into partisanship.

“I read the comments made by the former Governor of Rivers State, Peter Odili, on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, today, and I can’t but be disappointed that someone who should be acting like an elder statesman can reduce himself to such a ridiculous level of partisanship,” Olayinka stated. He added that Wike would provide an appropriate response to the allegations at the right time, further heightening anticipation of a deeper political showdown.

Odili Accuses Wike of Attempting to Capture Rivers State

At a Christmas Ballad event held in honor of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Dr. Odili alleged that Wike had attempted to transform the state into a personal domain. He commended Fubara for thwarting what he described as a “ferocious, unnecessary political war” initiated by Wike.

“Governor Fubara confronted the challenge, prevented the quest by one man to capture the state as a private estate, emancipated Rivers people, steadied governance, and made civil servants and Rivers people happier as it used to be,” Odili declared. The event highlighted growing divisions among Rivers’ political elite, with Odili positioning himself firmly in support of Governor Fubara.

Political Crisis Threatens Rivers State’s Development

The ongoing political feud between prominent leaders like Wike and Odili has cast a shadow over Rivers State’s governance. Despite Governor Fubara’s efforts to stabilize the state, observers note that the crisis remains unresolved, affecting both development and public confidence.

Analysts argue that the public exchange of accusations among political heavyweights undermines Rivers State’s progress. As the tension escalates, citizens are left wondering whether their leaders can set aside personal differences to prioritize the state’s growth and development.

This political standoff reflects deeper divisions within Rivers State’s political landscape, raising concerns about the long-term implications for governance and unity.

Social Media Reacts to the Political Tensions

The ongoing feud between Wike, Odili, and Fubara has sparked heated discussions on social media, with many users expressing diverse opinions. Some criticized Wike for meddling in Rivers State politics despite his current role as FCT Minister. A user with the handle @ogodo97 wrote, “Mr. Lere, you lack the purview to comment on Rivers State local politics. Your job is to focus on the FCT Minister’s responsibilities.”

Others defended Wike, highlighting his achievements in Rivers during his tenure. User @FreeGiver commented, “Wike is doing well as FCT Minister. Focus on this and leave Rivers politics. Rivers is not Ekiti; respect its complexity.” Another user, @GodDidIt, accused Odili of hypocrisy, alleging he once tried to secure political appointments for his family members under Wike’s administration.

Political Fallout Hampers Rivers Development

Political analysts warn that the ongoing discord among key political figures in Rivers State is affecting governance and development. The absence of unity has reportedly led to a lack of cohesive policy implementation, with civil servants and residents bearing the brunt of the crisis.

Observers also note that such power tussles are not new to Rivers politics. A social media user, @Akereyejo, commented, “We witnessed similar situations when Wike succeeded Rotimi Amaechi. Once your tenure is due, you have to shift for the new governor.” However, the scale and intensity of the current crisis are raising concerns about Rivers’ future stability.

Despite his critics, Wike remains a polarizing figure with a significant legacy in Rivers politics. Whether he will respond to Odili’s accusations directly remains to be seen, but the political unrest in Rivers State shows no signs of abating.