Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister, addressed political tensions with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara during the Rivers Ijaw Peoples Congress in Port Harcourt. Wike clarified that no one holds a monopoly on violence and dismissed claims that the Ijaw people oppose him, emphasizing his commitment to stability and the rule of law.
In a recent address at the Rivers State Ijaw Peoples Congress in Port Harcourt, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike emphasized that “nobody has the monopoly of causing violence” as tensions escalate between him and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike's remarks come in the context of the growing public perception that Fubara speaks for the entire Ijaw community, a notion he vigorously refuted.
Wike, who was honored at the gathering, expressed gratitude to the Rivers Ijaw Congress for the event but challenged the motives behind the public discourse surrounding their political rivalry. “So many people go on television and speak as if they speak on behalf of the Ijaw people,” he noted, insisting that not all Ijaw individuals share the same views.
Drawing an analogy from family dynamics, Wike remarked, “A father can have twelve children, and one can be an armed robber. Does that mean that the whole family are armed robbers?” His comments aimed to clarify that discontent from a few individuals does not represent the sentiments of the broader Ijaw population.
Wike further criticized Fubara, questioning his political influence and suggesting that those who attack him are simply envious of the progress made under his leadership. He stated, “If they were that powerful, since the old Rivers State, has Ijaw ever become governor?”
In conclusion, Wike affirmed his commitment to peace and stability, stating, “We choose to play according to the rule of law… and that is what we will continue to do.” His statements shed light on the complexities of Ijaw politics and the challenges facing leaders in the region.
