The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculations of ethnic division in Rivers State, stating that the show of solidarity by the Kalabari people demonstrates unity and shared purpose.
Wike made this remark on Saturday during a grand civic reception held in his honour by Kalabari stakeholders in Abalama Town, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The event, organized by Ijaw stakeholders under the aegis of the New Associates, was marked by cultural displays, traditional dances, and tributes to Wike’s contributions to the region.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, who also serves as Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Council, praised the FCT Minister for his dedication to inclusivity and governance. He emphasized that the grand reception was a testament to the Minister’s impact and the appreciation of the Kalabari people.
Similarly, Director General of the Border Community Development Agency, Chief George Kelly, commended Wike’s role in the advancement of the Ijaw nation, particularly his support for the emergence of an Ijaw governor in Rivers State.
Responding to the recognition, Wike expressed gratitude to the Kalabari nation and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting their development. He dismissed claims of ethnic division, saying, “What you have done today is to tell the world that all the noise on the radio is not the real thing. You are the Kalabaris, you are of the Ijaw nation, and you are receiving me today. God will continue to bless you.”
He clarified that his endorsement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara was rooted in his love for the Ijaw people, but lamented that the Governor had deviated from their initial agreement for unity and progress.
Wike criticized Fubara’s decision to align with individuals who had previously opposed his election, arguing that they were misleading him. He also condemned the withholding of allowances for State Assembly members, calling it an unjust act.
“All these things you are seeing, I told the Governor, ‘God gave you something, eat it peacefully.’ It is not good for you to face this crisis. But they told him, ‘You are Governor, you have money.’ Money is not everything. All these people, they have nothing to offer. See where we are now. How far?” Wike stated.
Addressing calls for peace, Wike maintained that he would not interfere with the work of the Rivers State House of Assembly, asserting that lawmakers should be allowed to perform their constitutional duties without intimidation.
“I’m not going to stop the State Assembly members from performing their constitutional duties. The Assembly should be allowed to perform their constitutional duties. People who love peace don’t threaten people. The more you threaten, the more you worsen the situation,” he said.
He also criticized Fubara’s approach to the ongoing political crisis, noting that despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention, the Governor’s allies continued to undermine peace efforts through court actions.
“When the President intervened, they went to court challenging Mr. President that he assumed power that is not constitutional. Now, you are running back to the same President. You must be consistent with your actions,” Wike added.
Reaffirming his loyalty to the Ijaw nation, Wike stressed the need for political stability and fairness in governance. He warned against sidelining those who had contributed to the state’s political structure and urged the people to remain law-abiding despite attempts to stir ethnic division.
“Our efforts, our sweat, we cannot be pushed out. All of you suffered, and somebody will just come, because they gave him power overnight, and say, ‘Get out.’ Anybody who remembers you in the rainy season will also remember you in the dry season,” he stated.
The Minister was accompanied by prominent political allies, including Senator Philip Aduda, former Minority Whip in the 9th Assembly; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche; and Senator Mao Ohuabunwa.
