Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has insisted that he cannot align himself with individuals he believes are working against the development and progress of Rivers State.
The former Rivers governor made the remarks while speaking to residents during his ongoing appreciation tour across several local government areas in the state, including Okrika.
Wike Rejects Claims of Ethnic Bias
Addressing supporters at the gathering, Wike dismissed accusations suggesting he harbours resentment toward the Ijaw ethnic community.
He maintained that his relationship with the people of Okrika and the wider Ijaw community remains cordial, adding that his political disagreements should not be interpreted through an ethnic lens.
According to Gossip News Now, the minister stressed that his opposition is directed only at individuals he considers obstacles to the advancement of Rivers State.
“Face Me Directly,” Wike Tells Critics
The FCT minister also challenged those with grievances against him to confront him personally instead of turning political disputes into ethnic or communal issues.
In a differently reconstructed remark, Wike suggested that critics should engage him openly rather than attempting to create division by presenting political disagreements as attacks on entire communities.
He emphasized that politics should not be manipulated to create unnecessary tension among ethnic groups within Rivers State.
Development Remains Priority
Wike reiterated that his primary concern remains the growth and transformation of Rivers State.
He argued that anyone denying the existence of developmental projects executed during his administration was ignoring visible realities on the ground.
The minister further declared that opposition to meaningful progress would not discourage him from speaking out or defending what he believes benefits the state.
Tinubu Commended Over Rivers LG Elections
During the visit, Wike also praised Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as efforts toward stabilising the local government election process in Rivers State.
He credited the President’s intervention with helping to correct earlier concerns surrounding the councils and restoring administrative order at the grassroots level.
The former governor expressed confidence that the current local government leadership structure would deliver improved governance to residents across the state.
Political Tension Continues in Rivers
Wike’s comments come at a time when political tensions remain high within Rivers State following ongoing disagreements among key political actors.
Observers say the latest statements further underline the widening divisions between rival camps battling for political influence in the oil-rich state.
The political atmosphere has continued attracting national attention due to Rivers State’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Commentary and Analysis
Wike’s latest remarks appear aimed at reinforcing his influence within Rivers politics while defending himself against allegations of ethnic bias.
By framing the disagreement around development rather than ethnicity, the former governor seems determined to position himself as a political figure focused on governance and state interests.
His continued praise for President Tinubu also suggests that national political alliances may play a major role in shaping future developments in Rivers State.
Analysts believe the situation reflects the increasingly intense political calculations already building ahead of future elections in the state.
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