Nyesom Wike has accused Dr. Peter Odili of disobeying President Tinubu’s peace initiative in Rivers State, dismissing calls for an apology over recent remarks. “You can’t kill me for telling the truth,” Wike declared.
In a bold declaration, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, of undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s peace efforts in the state. Speaking at a New Year luncheon held at his country home in Obio-Akpor, Wike made it clear that he would not be intimidated or coerced into apologizing to Odili over recent comments that have sparked political tension.
The rift comes against the backdrop of an ongoing feud between Wike and the current Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara. Wike, known for his fiery rhetoric, alleged that Odili had disobeyed Tinubu’s directives aimed at fostering peace in Rivers State.
“They said I should apologize; apologize for what?” Wike asked defiantly. He accused Odili of converting Rivers State into a “personal estate” and criticized him for failing to implement Tinubu’s peace resolutions.
Wike added, “Tinubu is not like you. When Mr. President called Rivers leaders for peace, you should have respected his effort. Instead, you disobeyed and acted unilaterally.”
At the heart of the dispute is Wike’s accusation that Odili, a respected elder statesman in Rivers, has played a divisive role by favoring his daughter over other family members in political decisions. Wike argued that this behavior undermines unity and fairness.
“I didn’t say there is a law against what you did. But as an elder statesman, should you give what belongs to your nephew to your daughter?” Wike questioned.
The FCT Minister further claimed that Odili had been publicly narrating tales of personal benefits received from him, turning a private relationship into a political spectacle.
Wike dismissed demands by some Rivers elders to tender an apology, insisting he had done nothing wrong. He maintained that his criticism was directed at Odili’s actions, not his person, and called for accountability among leaders.
“I didn’t abuse anybody,” Wike said. “I simply pointed out that no elder statesman should make conflicting statements that mislead the public. If he had denied saying those things, I would have apologized. But he didn’t.”
The feud between Wike, Odili, and Governor Fubara reflects the deepening political divisions within Rivers State. Observers note that the tensions could have far-reaching implications for the state’s political landscape, particularly as Wike continues to wield significant influence despite transitioning from his role as governor.
For Wike, the message is clear: he will not back down from speaking his truth. “You cannot kill me for telling the truth,” he declared.
