The Rivers State Police Command has invited a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tammy Danagogo, for questioning over an alleged plot to assassinate the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The police invitation follows the emergence of a leaked phone conversation allegedly involving Danagogo and a Port Harcourt–based pastor, Tombari Joseph Gbeneol, who is already in police custody. Security sources say the conversation contained discussions about a plan to harm the former Rivers State governor.
Although the official police invitation letter sent to Danagogo did not state the reason for the invitation, a senior source familiar with the investigation said it was connected to the leaked phone call.
“The invitation is linked to a leaked phone conversation between Danagogo and Pastor Tombari,” the source said. “The police are already in possession of the call and want him to explain his role in the matter.”
According to the source, the conversation allegedly involved discussions about recruiting foreign nationals to carry out the assassination.
“Danagogo and Pastor Tombari were allegedly talking about a plot to invite Israelis to come and kill the Minister,” the source claimed. “The leaked phone conversation is with the police, and he has been invited for questioning.”
The Rivers State Police Command has not yet made an official public statement detailing the allegations against Danagogo. However, police sources confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that all persons mentioned in the intercepted communication will be questioned.
The development follows the earlier arrest of Pastor Tombari Joseph Gbeneol by security operatives in Port Harcourt. Gbeneol, a known cleric in the state, was picked up after authorities reportedly intercepted and monitored a phone conversation between him and Danagogo.
During the monitored call, the two men were said to have discussed plans to assassinate Wike, who is currently serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Security sources alleged that the conversation went further to include plans to source funds to carry out the operation. According to them, there was a proposal during the call to seek financial support from Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Investigators are now working to verify the claims and determine whether the conversation was serious, exaggerated, or misinterpreted. Police sources said the invitation extended to Danagogo was part of efforts to hear his side of the story and establish the facts.
The case has drawn wide attention due to the political weight of those involved. Danagogo served as Secretary to the Rivers State Government during the administration of Nyesom Wike and was regarded as one of his close associates at the time. His name has remained prominent in Rivers politics even after leaving office.
Wike, on the other hand, remains a major political figure in the country. He governed Rivers State for eight years and is known for his strong political influence and outspoken nature. Since becoming FCT Minister, he has continued to attract attention both for his policies in Abuja and his ongoing political influence in Rivers State.
Rivers State has in recent months been engulfed in deep political tension following the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike. The disagreement has divided the state’s political structure and spilled into the House of Assembly, leading to legislative crises, court cases, and public protests.
Residents of Port Harcourt and other parts of the state expressed shock over the reports. Many described the allegations as disturbing and called on security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation.
“This is very serious,” said Chijioke Amadi, a civil servant in Port Harcourt. “Politics should not get to the point where lives are threatened. The police must get to the truth.”
Others urged caution, warning against rushing to conclusions before the investigation is completed.
“These are still allegations,” said Tonye George, a legal practitioner. “Everyone involved deserves a fair hearing. The police should do their job professionally and present facts, not rumours.”
So far, neither Danagogo nor Governor Fubara has made a public statement on the matter. Pastor Gbeneol is also yet to speak publicly since his arrest.
The Rivers State Police Command has assured residents that there is no immediate security threat and that the situation is under control. Officers say the invitation to Danagogo is part of routine investigative procedure and does not amount to guilt.