The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding his claims of ownership of political structures in Rivers State. INC emphasized that political structures should not be considered anyone’s personal property, highlighting the transient nature of power. They emphasized the importance of handing over political architecture to the succeeding leader, in this case, the incumbent governor of the state.
The INC reminded Wike of the historical precedent where the PDP structure, initially built by Dr. Peter Odili and upheld by Celestine Omehia and Rotimi Amaechi, was passed on to him. They urged Wike to uphold this political tradition and transfer these structures to his successor, in recognition of the support he received from the Ijaws during his tenure.
The Ijaw group expressed concerns about Wike’s refusal to relinquish political structures and his continued influence over the incumbent governor. They argued that this behavior would have adverse consequences on the state’s human capital, political, economic, and social development, as well as on the Nigerian state as a whole.
In a statement signed by the President of INC, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, the group took issue with Wike’s reported provocative and unguarded comments regarding the crisis in Rivers State, emphasizing that it was not just a matter of state politics but also had broader implications. They stood firmly by their own, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, highlighting his commendable track record, technocratic approach, and commitment to the state’s development within the boundaries of established rules and regulations.
INC emphasized that the massive condemnation of the impeachment attempt against Fubara was a movement against political tyranny, spiritual strangulation, and economic disarray. They acknowledged Wike’s role in supporting Fubara and called for continued support and an enabling environment for him to govern effectively as the current governor.
INC also expressed their disappointment with the position statement of the Rivers State PDP Elders Forum, deeming it misplaced and lopsided. They asserted that the forum failed to address the core issues and criticized their reluctance to speak truth to power and affluence.
In conclusion, the INC reiterated their gratitude to Wike for making their son, Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, acknowledging the support he received from Ijaw leaders like Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. They called for a more inclusive and fair political landscape in Rivers State.
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