The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to calls by ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, urging him to forgive the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. According to Wike, Fubara has yet to seek forgiveness, making any possibility of reconciliation premature.
Speaking through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike clarified that forgiveness can only occur if the person who committed the wrong acknowledges their actions and requests forgiveness. He emphasized that no forgiveness can be considered unless the person involved comes forward to address their wrongdoings.
The issue came to the forefront after Tompolo, in a recent statement, urged Wike to set aside any animosity towards Fubara for the sake of unity and peace in the region. Tompolo, acknowledging the strained relationship between the two, called for restraint and dialogue to resolve the crisis and allow Fubara to return to his position as governor.
“I will not accept rebellion from my son, and I will not create more problems. Wike is angry, but he needs to temper his emotions for the greater good. We need dialogue to resolve this, and Fubara should return to his seat,” Tompolo said.
However, in his response, Wike’s aide made it clear that there is no personal offense for which forgiveness is required. “There is no offence here. It’s only when someone has offended you that forgiveness comes into play,” Olayinka stated, stressing that Fubara had not approached Wike to seek any form of reconciliation.
The minister’s spokesperson further explained that Wike had never accused Fubara of personal wrongdoing but had simply urged adherence to governance principles. Wike had previously called for Fubara to govern in accordance with the rule of law, specifically not sidelining those who had worked to support his political ascent.
In addition, Olayinka raised concerns over Fubara’s changing stance towards Wike, questioning why Fubara, who had once worked closely with him, now seemingly harbored animosity. “At what point did Wike become a bad person to him? Fubara should reflect on this,” Olayinka remarked, noting that during their time working together, Wike had endured significant personal and political challenges for Fubara’s benefit.
Wike’s aide also pointed to the contradiction in Fubara’s actions, comparing it to asking a doctor to provide medicine for a sick person who refuses to take it. “What happens then?” Olayinka queried, implying that Fubara needed to reflect on his actions before any reconciliation could take place.
As the tension continues between Wike and Fubara, the minister’s response highlights the importance of accountability in resolving political disputes and suggests that, for now, the door to reconciliation remains closed until Fubara addresses the underlying issues.
