The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, yesterday emphasized that he would not tender an apology to former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, for the recent negative remarks he made about the elder statesman. Wike made this statement at a luncheon he organized for his political associates and stakeholders in Port Harcourt.
Nyesom Wike Responds to Elders’ Call for Apology
Nyesom Wike responded to a call made earlier by some elders in Rivers State, under the aegis of the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, who demanded an unreserved apology from him due to the derogatory comments he made about Odili and his family, including his university. Wike’s remarks had stirred controversy among prominent figures, who considered the comments disrespectful.
Wike’s Allegations Against Dr. Odili
Wike reiterated his accusations that Odili had switched an appointment meant for his nephew to his daughter, and continued to claim that Odili had turned the state into his personal estate. He referred to Odili as a “Bishop,” suggesting his undue influence in the state. Wike clarified his position, saying, “There is no law that says their daughter shouldn’t take up the appointment, but as an elder, Odili should not have given what belongs to his nephew to his daughter.”
He continued, “I didn’t say anything wrong, so you cannot kill me for what I didn’t say.” According to Wike, the allegations against him were an attempt to discredit his integrity.
Nyesom Wike Defends His Stance on Political Matters
Wike also defended his political position, stating that Nyesom Wike would not be intimidated by any political group attempting to discredit him. He pointed out that President Bola Tinubu’s approach was different from Odili’s, stressing that Tinubu’s desire for peace was not reciprocated by Odili’s actions.
“I didn’t say anything wrong,” he said. “If you are a good person, Tinubu would call Rivers people to make peace. But Odili came home and disobeyed everything.”
Wike urged his supporters to remain patient during the political turmoil in the state, stating, “Whether it goes your way or not, we cannot be like them to disparage the judiciary.”
Recognizing Support and Reflecting on Political Journey
Wike recognized the presence of Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, urging him to always support those who helped him attain office. He acknowledged that no one could succeed without the backing of others.
Reflecting on his political journey, Wike shared that he had endured several challenges throughout his career, including facing false charges. However, he was confident that these hurdles would be overcome in time.
Nyesom Wike’s Unwavering Support for President Tinubu
Wike reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 elections. He expressed no regrets for backing Tinubu, despite the criticism he faced from others who initially opposed Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s rise to power. According to Wike, time would show who stood with the people.
Rivers Elders Demand Apology from Wike
In response to Wike’s comments, the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, including prominent leaders such as former Governor Celestine Omehia, Prince Uche Secondus, and Senator Lee Maeba, issued a statement condemning Wike’s actions. They called for an apology from Nyesom Wike due to his disrespectful remarks about Dr. Odili and his family, including claims about the PAMO University of Medical Sciences.
Clarification of Wike’s Claims About Dr. Odili
The elders defended Dr. Peter Odili, refuting Wike’s claims about his political career. They emphasized that Odili had only followed the directives of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who had asked him to step down from the 2007 presidential race in the interest of national unity. The elders made it clear that Wike’s accusations were unfounded and politicized.
Defending Dr. Odili’s Contributions and Legacy
The statement from the elders went on to defend Dr. Odili’s impressive legacy, both as a governor and a medical professional. They pointed out that Odili was the founder of PAMO University of Medical Sciences and clarified that its establishment was aimed at improving healthcare in Rivers State, not as a favor to Odili’s family. They also clarified Wike’s claim about building a house for Odili, stating that it was a legal entitlement for former governors, not a personal favor.
Wike’s Disrespect Toward Elders Condemned
The Concerned Elders condemned Nyesom Wike for his continued disrespect toward dignified individuals, including former governors, traditional rulers, and clergy members. They stressed that such behavior was unbecoming of someone who had held high public office, and they expected better conduct from Wike as a former governor and a current federal minister.
The Rift Between Wike and Odili: The Background
The tensions between Wike and Odili began when Odili reportedly advised Wike against a plot to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The refusal to heed this counsel and subsequent attempts to destabilize the government led to Odili’s support for the current administration.
Elders’ Call for Unity and Respect
The Concerned Elders concluded their statement by emphasizing the importance of respecting elders and upholding the values of unity and decorum in public discourse. They urged Nyesom Wike to reconsider his approach to conflict resolution, citing that his remarks had harmed the state’s values and traditions.
