The political tension in Rivers State deepened on Thursday as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, defiantly rejected calls from prominent elders of the state for an apology to Dr. Peter Odili, former Governor of Rivers State, over derogatory comments he recently made about the elder statesman.
Wike, during a luncheon held for political associates at his Port Harcourt residence, firmly stated, “I will not apologize to Dr. Odili. There is no law that says his daughter should not hold an appointment.” This remark came in response to a highly charged demand from the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, a group consisting of some of the state’s most prominent figures, who called on Wike to tender an unreserved apology for his public disparagement of Odili.
The group, which includes influential leaders such as former Governor Celestine Omehia, former Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru, and Prince Uche Secondus, issued a statement condemning Wike’s comments as unbecoming of someone with his political stature. In their letter, the elders described Wike’s attacks on Odili and his family as “an affront to the values of respect and unity that have long been hallmarks of Rivers State.”
The Heart of the Dispute
The rift between Wike and Odili escalated after a series of remarks made by Wike during a church event in Ororgwe, where he accused Odili of converting Rivers State into his “personal estate.” Wike took aim at Odili’s family, specifically criticizing the appointment of his daughter, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, as the Commissioner for Health in the state. Wike also claimed that Odili had unfairly maneuvered to ensure his daughter received an appointment meant for his nephew, an accusation that has not gone down well with the elder statesman’s supporters.
In his defense, Wike explained, “I did not say there is a law preventing his daughter from taking up an appointment. But as an elder statesman, it is not right to give what belongs to your nephew to your daughter. This is what I said, and there is nothing wrong with that.”
Despite the gravity of his words, Wike dismissed calls for an apology, asserting that the criticism of Odili was warranted, especially in light of his involvement in the political dynamics of the state.
“I didn’t say anything wrong,” Wike added during the luncheon, referring to the controversy surrounding the alleged appointment switch. “You cannot kill me for what I didn’t say. I stand by my words.”
Elders’ Strong Reactions
The statement from the Concerned Elders group expressed deep concern over what they described as a pattern of disrespect from Wike, particularly towards revered figures in Rivers State, including former governors, traditional rulers, and clergymen. The elders emphasized that such behavior undermines the state’s long-held tradition of respecting elders and honoring those who have contributed significantly to the development of the region.
“We stand against the unfortunate remarks made by Chief Nyesom Wike. His continuous disrespect towards dignified individuals, including former governors and traditional rulers, is unbecoming of someone who has held high public office,” the statement read.
The elders specifically pointed to Wike’s relationship with Odili, arguing that the former governor has always demonstrated loyalty and wisdom throughout his political career. “Dr. Peter Odili is not only a successful political figure, but also a respected medical professional and an elder statesman. He has represented the Niger Delta with dignity, and his commitment to the well-being of Rivers State is unquestionable,” the statement continued.
The group also defended the establishment of PAMO University of Medical Sciences, founded by Odili, stressing that the collaboration between the university and the state government aimed at improving healthcare, not personal gain.
“We defend the good work of Dr. Peter Odili. The founding of PAMO University and his various contributions to the healthcare system are significant, and they are not about promoting personal interests,” they stated.
Wike’s Counter-Narrative
Despite the growing backlash, Wike stood firm, rejecting the idea that his actions were damaging to the state. He explained that his loyalty has always been to the people of Rivers State, and he was simply expressing his views on what he perceived to be political manipulation.
Wike’s comments about Odili’s “personal estate” were particularly pointed. He claimed that Odili had undermined the state’s interests by prioritizing his family’s political advancement. Wike’s accusations were not limited to Odili’s family appointments but extended to his broader political maneuverings. According to Wike, Odili’s influence had resulted in the “conversion” of Rivers State to his personal property, a claim that has fueled ongoing tensions between the two political heavyweights.
Wike further challenged Odili’s political legacy, calling into question his past actions and their impact on the political landscape in Rivers State. He recalled how Odili had been advised to step down from the presidential race in 2006 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and he suggested that Odili’s compliance with that directive might have been out of personal interest rather than party loyalty.
“Dr. Odili did not ‘chicken out’ as Wike claims,” the elders retorted. “He was a loyal party man who sacrificed his ambitions for the greater good of the country.”
Political Implications for Rivers State
As the feud between Wike and Odili intensifies, many are questioning its implications for the political stability of Rivers State. Wike’s continued defiance against the calls for an apology suggests that this dispute is far from over, and it may affect the state’s political dynamics in the coming months.
Political analysts have warned that such public spats between influential figures could destabilize the unity within the state, potentially leading to factionalism. However, Wike remains resolute, urging his supporters to stay patient amidst the ongoing political turmoil.
“Everything has time,” he said. “Whether it goes your way or not, just remain calm. There is something that will happen in this state that everyone will know. It’s not about a party movement, it’s a movement that you will see.”
