The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described the paramount ruler of Emohua Kingdom, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, as the “political bulldozer” of Rivers State, crediting him with laying the foundation for the political careers of many leaders in the state, including himself.
Wike made the remark on Wednesday during the commissioning of the Federal High Court Judges’ Quarters in Abuja, where the traditional ruler was among the dignitaries in attendance.
The former Rivers State governor took time during his speech to acknowledge Awuse’s influence in the state’s political landscape and to express gratitude for the role he played in shaping his own political journey.
“I recognize those who laid the foundation for some of us to use as ladder to climb to where we are today,” Wike said.
“My dear brother, the political bulldozer of Rivers State – even though he has abandoned politics and is now a traditional ruler.
“They call him Sergeant but where he got the name from, I do not know,” the minister added, drawing laughter from guests at the event.
Wike’s comments offered a rare public insight into the political relationships and mentorship that have shaped Rivers State politics over the years.
Before ascending the traditional stool as the paramount ruler of Emohua Kingdom, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse was one of the most prominent figures in Rivers State politics.
Awuse played active roles during the formative years of Nigeria’s current democratic dispensation and was widely regarded as a powerful grassroots mobiliser and influential political strategist.
His ability to build alliances and command loyalty across different parts of Rivers State earned him a reputation as one of the state’s political heavyweights.
It is this reputation that Wike referenced when he described him as the “political bulldozer” of Rivers State.
Although Awuse has largely withdrawn from partisan politics following his emergence as a traditional ruler, many political observers believe his contributions to the state’s political evolution remain significant.
For younger politicians, his story represents an era when political structures were built through personal networks, grassroots engagement and loyalty.
Wike’s acknowledgment of Awuse comes against the backdrop of his own remarkable political journey.
The FCT minister remains one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures. He served as chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area before becoming Chief of Staff to a former governor of Rivers State.
He later served as Minister of State for Education under former President Goodluck Jonathan before returning to Rivers State to contest and win the governorship election in 2015.
After completing two terms as governor, Wike was appointed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023.
Throughout his career, Wike has often spoken about the importance of loyalty and political mentorship, acknowledging those who supported him at various stages of his rise.
His latest remarks suggest that Awuse occupies a special place among those he considers instrumental to his success.
Awuse’s transition from politics to traditional leadership reflects a path taken by several respected figures in different parts of Nigeria.
As Eze Ohna of Emohua Kingdom, he now plays a different role, focusing on preserving culture, promoting peace and contributing to the development of his community.
Traditional rulers in Rivers State and other parts of the country continue to wield considerable influence, particularly in conflict resolution and community affairs.
Their voices often carry weight in political discussions, even when they are no longer active participants in partisan activities.
By noting that Awuse had “abandoned politics and is now a traditional ruler,” Wike appeared to recognise both the monarch’s past political contributions and his present responsibilities as a custodian of tradition.
The event where Wike made the remarks was the commissioning of the newly completed Federal High Court Judges’ Quarters in Abuja.
The project forms part of ongoing efforts by the FCT Administration to improve infrastructure and provide better welfare facilities for judicial officers.
The commissioning attracted top government officials, members of the judiciary, traditional rulers and political leaders from across the country.
While the ceremony focused primarily on the completion of the housing project, Wike’s tribute to Awuse became one of the highlights of the event.
In Nigeria’s political environment, public recognition of mentors and political benefactors is often viewed as a demonstration of gratitude and loyalty.
Wike’s comments underscored the importance of those who help build political structures and nurture emerging leaders behind the scenes.
By describing Awuse as the “political bulldozer of Rivers State,” the FCT minister highlighted the monarch’s enduring legacy in the state’s political history.
Even though Awuse has stepped away from active politics, Wike’s remarks suggest that his impact continues to be remembered by those who benefitted from his guidance and support.