The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned against threats to halt Nigeria’s oil production due to the ongoing political tension in Rivers State.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, March 12, Wike condemned any attempt to disrupt the nation’s economy over political disputes. He insisted that due process must be followed.
Wike, who ruled the state from 2015 to 2023, denied allegations that he had called for the impeachment of his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“Who called for the impeachment of the Governor? I am not aware. If Fubara has committed an impeachable offence, nothing stops the House from acting,” he said.
He also dismissed threats of an oil production shutdown, saying such actions were reckless.
“As a sitting president, you cannot threaten to shut down oil production because of an impeachment scare. Enough is enough!” Wike declared.
Ethnic and Political Ramifications
Wike addressed ethnic issues in the Niger Delta, particularly concerning the Ijaw people.
“Ijaws are a minority in Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Edo. They can only become Governor in Bayelsa because they are a majority there. In Rivers, we are one big family, and the Ijaw also deserve the governorship,” he said.
He also recalled the process that led to Fubara’s emergence as governor.
“Ferdinand Alabrabra, Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Forum, wept before Fubara was chosen as my successor. Yet, he insulted him and other elders on national television,” Wike stated.
The minister stressed that Fubara must follow constitutional procedures.
“Fubara, go and submit your budget to the State Assembly. Go and submit the list of your commissioners. You cannot continue to act illegally and expect peace,” he said.
Tinubu Calls for Calm
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has urged Rivers politicians to respect the Supreme Court ruling, which nullified last year’s local government elections and reinstated Martin Amaewhule and his faction as lawmakers.
Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the President: “This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Once the court has spoken, that is it.”
At a meeting with Niger Delta leaders under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) on Tuesday March 11, Tinubu urged them to ensure compliance with the ruling.
“Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability,” he said.
The President revealed that he had foreseen the crisis and attempted to prevent it.
“Yes, the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for it. I have been on this issue for quite some time. I foresaw the crisis festering for too long before I intervened,” Tinubu explained.
PANDEF Leaders React
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, praised Tinubu’s leadership.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.
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