Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has outlined prerequisites for authentic reconciliation with his erstwhile political associate, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
On Friday, April 25, during the platinum jubilee event for Honourable Ken Chikere in Port Harcourt, Wike spoke about the lingering political friction in Rivers State. He stressed his willingness for peace but insisted it must be sincere, encompassing all major political figures, rather than being a superficial gesture.
“We are men of peace, not of trouble. But it must be peace with sincerity, not peace as a decoy. Members of the State Assembly, the National Assembly, and the two major political parties must be involved,” he said.
Wike expressed disapproval of the quiet stance taken by the state’s elder statesmen, accusing them of complicity in the unrest and questioning their concrete efforts toward achieving peace. He also denounced what he termed media blackmail strategies, emphasizing that such tactics would not quell the political upheaval.
“No amount of embarrassment or blackmail can bring peace. What can bring peace is humility and a sincere commitment to the interests of the state,” he said.
Additionally, the former Rivers State Governor categorically refuted claims that he had collapsed and was airlifted abroad for medical care. Wike clarified that his overseas trip was to attend his son’s graduation ceremony, not for health-related reasons.
“I am here. I am healthy—very, very well,” he stated. “Someone started spreading that I had collapsed. I was never sick. And even if I were, am I not a human being? Those who wish others to fall will be the ones to fall. And when you fall, it will be final,” he added.
His remarks come amid ongoing discord with Governor Fubara, whom Wike had backed in the 2023 governorship election but has since experienced a significant falling-out with.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
