The political crisis in Rivers State took a new turn on Friday as Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, responded to accusations from Dr. Peter Odili, a former governor of the state.
Odili had alleged that Wike was attempting to turn the oil-rich state into his personal property, according to Channels TV.
Odili, who served two terms as governor, had earlier praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara for resisting Wike’s supposed attempts to capture the state for his own benefit.
He commended Fubara for standing firm against the pressure and preventing any one individual from taking control of the state. Odili also highlighted the positive impact Fubara’s leadership had on the well-being of civil servants and the people of Rivers State, contrasting it with the political situation since Wike’s departure from office.
It is now over 12 months, since the 25th October 2023, when a fierce existential fight, though unnecessary, was waged against Governor Fubara over the soul of Rivers State,” Odili said.
“With assuring fortitude, 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 until he left office in 2007.”
In a public appearance in Port Harcourt, Wike firmly denied these claims, rejecting any suggestion that he sought to turn Rivers State into his personal estate. His strong rebuttal further fueled the ongoing political tension within the state.
