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  • Rivers State and Wike’s  leadership burden

    Rivers State and Wike’s  leadership burden

    Federal Capital City (FCT) minister and former governor of Rivers State Nyesom Wike is the latest to fall out with his successor. Despite the acrimony that often ensues from such crisis and the abundance of dissuasive lessons, he will not be the last. For him and other former governors plagued by that peculiar kind of political and administrative dilemma, there will always be reasons to justify disputes between predecessors and successors. In Rivers, the dispute, among other reasons, may be connected with the need to sustain the integrity and durability of state party structure. It is suggested that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is loth to inherit his predecessor’s enemies, and wishes to hew out the path of a pacifist. Mr Wike, on the other hand, fears the reintroduction of his ‘enemies’ into the state’s governing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), enemies who might be keen on taking over the party and leaving him high and dry. Whatever the reasons, real or imagined, the fight has started.

    The fight in Ondo between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and his deputy, who merely acted as governor for a few months, is still smouldering. Had a succession taken place already, the propriety and tameness witnessed in the Rivers war, a war that erupted after only five months, would be impossible to find. Overall, there is hardly a state in which such wars broke out that the predecessor was not eventually worsted. Lagos probably bucked the trend, but only just, and in ways that are complex and nuanced. What really matters is not just that the wars exemplify administrative or ideological disagreements between two persons and contending forces, but that they are more significantly symptomatic of the crisis of leadership recruitment in Nigeria. The wars between successors and predecessors reached as high as the Nigerian presidency, between ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Yar’Adua, and between the same Chief Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. None of the army generals who foisted Chief Obasanjo attempted to control him or fight him since they were his juniors in the army. And no one could control or fight ex-president Muhammadu Buhari, himself a retired army general. The predecessor/successor wars are idiosyncratically a civilian matter. Perhaps with time, the inevitability of such wars will convince political godfathers of the futility of imposing favoured candidates on states.

    Predecessors and successors will never lack reasons to disagree or fight open wars. Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump in the United States despised each other, and both engaged in rhetorical and even administrative spat. It never went beyond that. Mr Trump’s current ordeal is more a product of his personal follies and foibles than anything connected with Mr Obama. While there may, therefore, be reasons to fight succession wars, it is not always inevitable, especially if the right things are done. Firstly, regardless of the desire to protect legacies or crimes, and ensure, perhaps, ideological purity and continuity, history has amply shown that no single political leader could eternally protect legacies, crimes or ideas. It is hubris to think otherwise. Admittedly, Mr Wike may be fighting to protect his future rather than defending a legacy or covering a crime, seeing how he straddled very unusually both the ruling APC in Abuja and the PDP in Rivers. His reasons will resonate with Abuja, considering the permutations being bandied around for 2027, but they will rankle with PDP oligarchs desirous of snatching the state from the mercurial Wike and punishing him for his perfidy and apostasy.

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    Until there is a deep and coherent paradigm shift in leadership recruitment, states which produce powerful and impactful leaders may continue to witness political succession instability. In the Fourth Republic, Lagos came closest than any other state in designing pragmatic leadership succession model. But that model is still a far cry from what is desirable. It may have fostered some sort of manageable stability, and even compelled fidelity to the state’s developmental blueprint far more evident than any ever seen in the country, but it has not always produced successors capable of passing brilliant torches to the next generation of leaders. Governor Bola Tinubu, as he then was, was more pragmatic than ideological, and his successor, Babatunde Fashola was equally practical. But while Senator Tinubu was faintly ideological in his pragmatism, indeed much given to a universalist and overarching perspective of regional rulership and development model, Mr Fashola was, despite his pragmatism, less regional and probably isolationist. The next governor, Akinwumi Ambode, though a builder himself, despised templates and blueprints, and was also not ideological. Had the state not been cajoled by then Gov Tinubu into some sort of stability, the developmental strides witnessed in the state, now taken for granted and regarded as a national benchmark, would have been difficult to midwife.

    Mr Wike probably has a vision to make Rivers another Lagos, perhaps even far better in line with his insinuations during some of his expansive state dinners. While that vision may be unimpeachable, it has not been matched by an inviolable blueprint or a carefully considered succession paradigm. Where Mr Wike had postured as Israel’s King David, Mr Fubara has neither proved to be cut from the same cloth nor acted like King Solomon when assailed by complicated troubles. The fault is not Mr Fubara’s. The problem is that Mr Wike’s ambitions have proved far more transcendental than his methods and visions. The Lagos model is fraying at the edges. In Rivers, the Lagos model will prove, for want of a better word, irreplicable, and will probably unravel much faster than Mr Wike ever imagined. This is because what Mr Wike left behind lacks coherence and depth, and the man who succeeded him, while seeming like a gentleman, seems to have a lot of trouble with the character, conviction and foresight of an ideologue. There are many ways to manage someone like Mr Wike, while at the same time keeping the dogs and hyenas outside the state at bay. Staying lockstep with the tempestuous and even nuanced Mr Wike, who governed far better than his predecessor, the self-absorbed Rotimi Amaechi, requires so much depth than the current governor can display.

    By now, the FCT minister must have realised that in the somewhat impressionable Mr Fubara, not to talk of Rivers and the PDP, he has a fight on his hands. Even if his ire and methods are beyond cavil, his inability to structure the state and the governorship succession scientifically will give him nightmares in the months ahead. He has stuck stubbornly to his guns, and has spoken daggers and is prepared to use them. But if he allows his rage to consume him, he will lose on all sides in the end. President Tinubu has rallied to his side instantaneously for obvious reasons, not the least of which is the cooperation afforded the ruling party by the Rivers PDP lawmakers in the National Assembly. Mr Wike will sustain his brittle leadership in Rivers if he moderates his expectations. Mr Fubara will not be the philosopher and solid steel the FCT minister imagines the governor capable of. Meanwhile, Rivers, with the protests and counter-protests of the past week, is still in formation. It is capable of bending in any direction for now. Had Mr Wike spent as much time shaping the mind and steeling the character and worldview of the state as he did building its bridges and public buildings, and had he paid attention to the state’s leadership recruitment rubric, he could go to sleep assured that neither Rivers nor its governors in the foreseeable future would betray the cause or be bought for a morsel. It is not clear whether it is not already too late for Mr Wike, despite his threat to fight long and hard; but it would be a mistake for him to assume or project the struggle to be about him or his ideas. He should speak less, considerably less, about himself or whether anyone is betraying him; for the struggle for political unity and party sanctity should be about Rivers, and Rivers only.

  • Successor-predecessor crisis

    Successor-predecessor crisis

    It is not new. It is only rampant in the Fourth Republic. Two key factors tend to fuel the partisan conflict. They are both features of politics. The first is the human nature; the second is the addiction to power, which is alluring and intoxicating.

    When the political romance between the benefactor and the beneficiary ends abruptly, observers are usually taken aback. Then the camp is divided. The impact of the split begins to take its toll, exposing the ruling party to distress.

    A disturbing scenario begins to play out. But it often happens like a comedy of errors which culminates in a melodrama. Sometimes, it ends in a tragedy. The power play between a governor and his successor in the Nigerian political landscape usually throws up avoidable intrigues. A lot of time is wasted in attempting to resolve the crisis it causes.  

    There would appear to be no neutral camp in the imbroglio. While many queue behind the governor, others would back the former governor. Those who were not privy to the secret between the two principal warring actors consequently enlist as combatants in the ensuing war of attrition.

    How to avert a successor-predecessor crisis, which seems to have become an eternal element of Nigerian politics, particularly between the benefactor and his anointed candidate who belongs to the same party, is a big challenge.

    The burden is on those in the business of power, their cohorts, confederates, lackeys, hangers-on and co-travellers.

    Political scientists contend that the outgoing ruling executives often devise a method of exerting influence on their successors after handing over to them. These outgoing rulers could not be expected to be aloof or indifferent to the nature, tendencies, beliefs, principles, dispositions, sentiments, and idiosyncrasies of their would-be successors.

    Two reasons may be responsible. The first is the defence or protection of their legacies, which they expect their preferred candidates to build on in the interest of the state. The second, which appears to be self-serving, is for cover-up.

    While the former lackey and rascally successor-in-waiting or political heir apparent is aware of these conditions, he plays along, only to later renege on an earlier agreement. He may unfold a contrary agenda. In a bid to hurriedly assert personality and be his own man, he adorns the garb of arrogance and severs the chord. It may be a prelude to a personality crisis.

    Though the former governor is outside power, he is never off the radar of influence. As he laments his curious miscalculation, he fights back. The arsenals at his disposal are usually the legislature and the party structure, which may not be under the grip of the new governor.

    The former governor gnashes his teeth over what would now appear to him as an avoidable recruitment error. He tries to resist the gradual or imminent threat to his influence from his defensive position.

    The transition from power to ordinary citizenship may be stressful. As pecks of the exalted office disappear, friends and associates begin to distance themselves from the former man of power. Sources of revenue decrease and the glamour of public protocol diminishes.

    Of course, a few months before the expiration of his tenure, the governor may have become a lame duck. The number of hangers-on sharply decreases as they gravitate to new power centres.

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    Left in the cold, the former governor becomes vulnerable out of the corridor of power. It is the period of accountability. He faces battles on two fronts: from bitter, disloyal, and uncooperative successors, and those from anti-graft bodies. The books are opened and previous deeds, including decisions long forgotten, are laid bare on the day of reckoning. The cost and rigours of litigation, and the burden of public vituperation are heavy.

    The new governor justifies his onslaught by attracting to himself political buddies who have no inkling about how he was catapulted to the seat of power.  In his quest for freedom from an imaginary cage, he seeks a sort of liberation that ultimately lands him in trouble and diverts his attention, no matter how temporarily, from governance as much energy is dissipated on the brewing crisis with his predecessor.

    He incites the public and chides his predecessor for his reluctance or refusal to let go, forgetting that he once adored him as the godfather during the campaigns when he promised a government of continuity.

    The aggrieved godfather replies to the salvos by accusing his former protege of disloyalty, ingratitude, treachery and rebellion to the party.

    In politics, the sin of disloyalty is hardly forgiven and forgotten. Although loyalty can be tested by some circumstances, it is expected that the circumstances should not be beyond the control of the beneficiary of godfatherism. It is debatable.

    If the conflict becomes unmanageable, it can lead to parting of ways. The winner could be either the governor or the former governor – whoever commands the superior levers of power.

    The parting of ways can either be temporary or permanent, depending on interests. Anytime their interests align again, they may put the past behind them and work together for the protection of common interest.

    But, if the disagreement between the predecessor and the successor has an ideological connotation, it may result in a permanent political enmity.

    Such was the case in the days of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former Premier of Old Western Region and Leader of Action Group (AG), and his successor, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA), who was deputy party leader.

    Awo lost his bid for Prime Minister in 1959. He became the Leader of the Opposition in a hostile Federal Parliament where he faced adjustment difficulties. It contrasted with the time he was both premier and party leader. His deputy in the party and successor as leader of government came with a different style. Awo kicked, saying the party principles, doctrines and ethos were being breached. Akintola’s supporters alleged that Awo did not give SLA a free hand to steer the affairs of the region.

    To SLA, a collaboration between the Western Region and the Central Government was necessary for the Western Region to get cakes from the Centre. Awo disagreed, saying the relations between the two tiers of government should be premised on ideology. There was a split in the AG. The region was polarised. A crisis broke out. Tension enveloped the wild wild Western Region. The rest, as it is said, is history.

    In this dispensation, the scenario has been enacted in Kano, Edo, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers states. But the bone of contention is not an ideological difference. It is about self-preservation and the protection of personal interest.

    In Kano, former Governor Rabiu Kwakwanso and his deputy, who took over from him, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, were best of friends who weathered the storm of politics together.

    However, barely a year later, both became foes. So deep was the acrimony that the two leaders could not cohabit in the same political party. Up to now, the prospect of reconciliation is still slim for the two gentlemen.

    In Enugu, former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani and his successor, Sullivan Chime, never saw eye to eye after the former left office, until Chime’s successor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, accorded respect to him and supported his bid for Senate.

    In Edo, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who later became the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, was suspended from the party by his ward. The governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his followers celebrated what they described as the collapse of godfatherism, on which back he rode to power in his first term.

    In Rivers, the eminent politician and elder statesman, Dr. Peter Odili, governor from 1999 to 2007, and his godson, Rotimi Amaechi, did not enjoy cordial relations for long. It is doubtful if the Cold War has ended.

    Former Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State and his successor, Gboyega Oyetola, were at loggerheads. What is striking is the weakness of crisis resolution mechanism in the progressive camp. After the change of baton, they went their separate ways. Having failed to reconcile and put their house in order, their party failed to retain power. Today, their feuding supporters are licking the wound.

    Reflecting on life after leaving the Akwa Ibom Government House, where he was governor between 2007 and 2015, Senate President Godswill Akpabio lamented how his successor, Udom Emmanuel, turned against him after he assisted him to become governor.

    At the 60th birthday of Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele in Abuja, Akpabio bemoaned the pattern of acrimony, advising Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who has maintained good relations with his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, not to join the bandwagon.

    During the inauguration party in Port Harcourt, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose offered the same advice to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who took over from Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    What Akpabio and Fayose suggested was the deployment of native wisdom in the management of the predecessor by the successor.

    When there is a conflict between successors and predecessors, both may be right or wrong, depending on the circumstances. The two contrasting positions are defended by party colleagues and followers in the two antagonistic camps.

    It is gratifying that President Bola Tinubu has intervened in the Rivers imbroglio. Cracks have appeared on the wall of brotherhood. They should be mended. If the cracks widen, the warriors may be consumed.

    The warriors only know the beginning of a war. They may not be able to accurately predict its short and long-term consequences.

  • I won’t allocate land without providing infrastructure, says Wike 

    I won’t allocate land without providing infrastructure, says Wike 

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has promised to provide infrastructure before allocating land in the territory.

    Wike spoke yesterday when he hosted the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, who urged him to consider the judiciary in the allocation of land in the FCT.

     The minister noted that there is no economic sense in allocating land to people in areas that are not accessible.

    Wike, who affirmed his respect for the Judiciary and the Legislature, said he believed in the equality and independence of the three arms of government.

    The minister said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had mandated him to provide land to key officials in the three arms, assuring that he was developing a template that would see the allocation done in phases.

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    He said: “Like you rightly said, I believe that the three arms of government must work together, even though independently. I believe that no arm of government should be treated lesser than the other.

    “Without the judiciary, our democracy cannot survive. Nigerians are talking about the judiciary today because of the role you play. So, whatever is required to strengthen the judiciary is not over-demanding.

    “Before now, the President had given me the go-ahead to allocate land to the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary. What remains now is how it should be done, because the number is much. What we have decided to do is to do this in phases. All cannot be done at the same time. 

    “Some allocations were done in the past but, unfortunately, some of the places are inaccessible. I think it is baseless allocating land where people have no access, that is, infrastructure. It does not make any sense. So, we will allocate land to you in places that are accessible.”

    Justice Tsoho hailed Wike for his continued support to the judiciary.

    The judge recalled that as Rivers State governor, Wike prioritised the welfare of judicial officers.

    He said Wike’s great antecedents in Rivers must have earned him this current position.

  • Wike approve funds for National Mosque, Christian Centre

    Wike approve funds for National Mosque, Christian Centre

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved funds for the maintenance of the National Mosque and the National Christian Centre.

    The Minister made this known after routine inspections of both religious centers in Abuja, yesterday.

    Wike said he was satisfied with work done at both the National Mosque and the Christian centre, despite the initial stoppage of the work by contractors due to additional works to be done.

    He said the Christian Centre had requested funds for Phase 2 of the renovation, noting however, that if the FCT did not have the funds to complete the project, he will meet with President Bola Tinubu for more funds.

    He said: “Jobs were awarded for the maintenance of the two National Monuments, which is the Mosque and the Church, and the jobs stopped because there were additional works that ought to be done.

    “I’m satisfied with all I have seen today and I have given the approval that the money should be released to the contractors to complete the additional project.

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    “While the Christian Center had requested for a phase II, which I said that I would look at the cost, if it is within what the Ministry of the FCT can build on its own, we would likely go ahead, but if it is what is above our threshold, we would have to go back to Mr. President for approval”.

    Wike further emphasised that the maintenance of both religious centres were part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, and that the President was not against any religion, but was interested in inclusivity for persons of both faiths.

    He said: “What this tells you is that, it is in line with the agenda of Mr. President which is the Renewed Hope agenda of running an inclusive government, not abandoning National Monuments like this, which is part of our pride. Look at what we saw at the mosque, see the landscaping, look at what we have seen here in the church and the landscaping.

    “They are built for the city and that is why I have said that Mr. President is not anti any religion. He takes all religions as one because we are all one Nigeria. Of course, you should know that he gave me the approval to come and visit these places and take up what it requires to be done”.

  • I won’t allocate land without providing infrastructure, says Wike

    I won’t allocate land without providing infrastructure, says Wike

    The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has pledged to ensure the provision of infrastructure before land allocations in the territory.

    Speaking on Thursday, November 2, when he received the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, the minister said it does not make any economic sense to allocate lands to people in areas that are not accessible.

    Justice Tsoho had requested the minister to consider the judiciary in the allocation of lands.

    Responding, Wike who affirmed his eternal respect for the Judiciary and the legislature, said he believes in the equality and independence of the three arms of government.

    According to him, President Bola Tinubu had already mandated him to provide lands to key officials in the three arms, saying he is developing a template that would see the allocation done in phases.

    He said: “Like you rightly said, I believe that the three arms of government must work together even though independently and I believe that no arm of government should be treated lesser than the other.

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    “Without the judiciary, our democracy cannot survive. Nigerians are talking about the judiciary today because of the role you play and so whatever is required to strengthen the judiciary is not over-demanding.

    “Before now, the President had given me the go-ahead to allocate lands to the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary. What remains now is how it should be done because the number is too much. What we have decided to do is to do this in phases. All cannot be done at the same time.

    “Some allocations were done in the past but unfortunately, some of the places are inaccessible. I think it is baseless to allocate land to which people have no access, that is, infrastructure. It does not make any sense. So, we will allocate lands to you in places that are accessible.”

    Earlier, Justice Tsoho commended Wike for his continued support to the judicial arm of government, saying as governor, the welfare of judicial officers in Rivers became the envy of their counterparts in other states.

    He said Wike’s great antecedents in Rivers must have earned him this current position.

    Justice Tsoho said: “I commend Your Excellency’s bias for the judiciary and you have always seen it as your primary constituency. The welfare of the Rivers state judiciary was second to none and you raised the bar so high that it became the envy of judicial officers in other states.

    “It is with that confidence that we bring the anguish of the FHC to you. The peculiarities of our job due to transfers takes us to several places. Consequently, we are denied various forms of policies for enhancing the welfare of judges since we are not part of the judiciary of those states, and failure to cater for our interests at the Federal level makes us stateless.

    “I kindly urge your excellency to use your good offices in allocating landed property to FHC judges. We appreciate our large number and recommend that this be done in batches, scattered across the FCT.”

    He also notified the minister of the golden jubilee celebration of the Federal High Court which is slated to take place in December.

  • Wike/Fubura feud: Rivers monarch Ateke Tom warns against infusion of ethnic colouration

    Wike/Fubura feud: Rivers monarch Ateke Tom warns against infusion of ethnic colouration

    King Ateke Tom, the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Rivers State, has cautioned against the introduction of ethnic divisions into the ongoing dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nysemo Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja.

    He emphasized that the dispute should be understood as a political disagreement between a mentor and his protege.

    King Ateke Tom also called on the seasoned elders and Royal fathers of the state to come together as a collective force to mediate between the warring factions to prevent further escalation of the matter.

    The monarch in a statement issued on Tuesday, November 1, called for peace and reconciliation amid a tumultuous relationship between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nysemo Wike.

    He warned: ” No one should give any ethnic colouration and dimensions to the issues noting that Nyesom Wike as an Ikwere man was instrumental to the emergence of Gov Fubara as a riverine man against all odds, as such, people should not use this minor dispute to instigate ethnic sentiments for their political gains.”

    He also pointed out that there is an urgency to put an end to the ongoing crisis, stating that such turmoil would bring no benefits to the state or its people.

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    According to him, there is need to sustain the development stride and peace by the previous administration which the current administration was part of and which we hopeful will be improve on.

    He added: “People should not turn the current unfortunate event into a political gain because Rivers State recorded peace and progress under ex-governor Nysemo Wike which has been sustained and shown signs greater prospects of progress and peace under Governor Fubara. As a royal father, I advise both sides to maintain restrain and allow wisdom to prevail in these circumstances.

    “Fubara is a governor to all and not a section? so it not proper to whip ethnic sentiments over temporary misunderstandings involving two leaders who have had a long history together.

    The king Advised the two great sons of the state to consider their long years of relationship and what they accomplished together and still have to do together for the good of Rivers state and seek for better and understanding ways to settle differences.

    He noted: “That it is quite unfortunate and disappointing to see what happened just within months of the new government.”

    King Ateke Tom expressed his fervent hope for a swift return to normalcy in the government and legislative processes in the state, emphasizing that this would be in the best interests of Rivers’ citizens, residents, and the business community.

    He also called on the police command in Rivers state to release the arrested youth who were protesting to foster reconciliatory efforts and peace process

    He stated: “I, Ateke Michael Tom, Amanyanabo of Ancient Okochiri Kingdom, call upon all the people of Rivers State to set aside any differences, political or otherwise, that threaten the peace and stability of our great state.”

    “It is our duty to seek common ground and ensure that the future of Rivers State is one of harmony and progress. Let us engage in dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence. The future of our state depends on our unity.”

    “My call is a resounding appeal for peace, a call for unity, and an invitation to dialogue. In these trying times, when political tensions have reached a boiling point, we should constrain ourselves and hold the promise of a brighter future for Rivers State.

    “The people of Rivers State have been presented with an opportunity to rise above the current challenges and chart a course towards a more stable and harmonious future.”

    He further urged all political actors and stakeholders in the state including the Royal fathers and the youth, the custodians of tradition and the architects of the future, to join hands in steering the state away from conflict and towards prosperity.

    The monarch stated: “The path to peace and reconciliation is open, and it is up to the residents of Rivers State to take those crucial steps towards a brighter and more unified future.”

  • JUST IN: My rift with Wike will be resolved amicably – Fubara

    JUST IN: My rift with Wike will be resolved amicably – Fubara

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed optimism that the political rift, involving himself and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, will be resolved.

    Fubara said there is nothing wrong for a father and a son to have problems, stressing that all issues, if any, will be resolved.

    The governor spoke when the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, led a military delegation to the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

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    The governor said: “For our dear state, I know everybody is wondering what’s going on, what’s not going on. We are okay, there is no problem.

    “If we have an internal issue, it will be resolved and everything will go back to normal. There is nothing wrong if a father and a son have a problem if there is any problem, but I don’t think there is anything, whatever it is, we will definitely resolve the issue.”

  • BREAKING: PDP Govs, Wike meet in Abuja over Rivers crisis

    BREAKING: PDP Govs, Wike meet in Abuja over Rivers crisis

    The PDP Governors’ Forum led by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, arrived at the office of former Rivers state governor and minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Wednesday, November 1, afternoon for a meeting.

    The Forum, in a communiqué read after a meeting of the group at the Oyo state Lodge in Abuja on Tuesday, highlighted the decision to visit Wike today over the Rivers crisis.

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    This meeting is coming at the heels of purported impeachment proceedings commenced by the Rivers State House of Assembly against Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Monday.

    There were also speculations of a rift between Fubara and Wike.

    Those in attendance as of the time of report include Governor Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Governor Kefas Agbu (Taraba), Governor Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), and others.

    Details shortly…

  • BREAKING : PDP Govs, Wike to meet over Rivers crisis

    BREAKING : PDP Govs, Wike to meet over Rivers crisis

    Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will visit the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike.

    The meeting is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, November 1 at the Minister’s office, Garki at 11, Abuja.

    A statement by the Director General of the PDP Governors Forum, CID Maduabum, said the proposed meeting is geared towards reconciliation and mediation.

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    According to Maduabum, the decision to pay Wike a visit was reached at the Governors’ last meeting in Abuja on Tuesday night.

    Details shortly….

  • Fubara, Wike feud: Tinubu, PDP governors mediate

    Fubara, Wike feud: Tinubu, PDP governors mediate

    • Governors praise    President for:    – intervention in crisis   – freedom for judiciary
    • ‘S’Court verdict has   closed 2023 elections’

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday intervened in the political crisis rocking Rivers State.

    Feuding Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike met and exchanged pleasantries at Aso Villa, 24 hours after their disagreement boiled over in Port Harcourt.

    Both men, dressed in white, shook hands before the meeting of the police council, which they attended.

    It was learnt that the President met with them after the meeting to ensure an end to their face-off. 

    While brokering peace, sources said the President urged Fubrara and Wike to reconcile and work for peace and security in their state.

    Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), their party, also waded into the imbroglio.

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who is the chair of the PDP Governors’ Forum, told reporters that the governors were pleased with the President’s intervention and would cooperate with him to end the crisis in Rivers.

    The PDP governors left the meeting venue at Aso Villa for another meeting at Oyo State House, at the end of which Governor Mohammed briefed reporters on the outcome.

    According to the communiqué read by Mohammed, the PDP governors said: “The PDP governors were alarmed at the recent developments in Rivers State and welcome the intervention of Mr. President to bring the crises to an end. 

    “The meeting urged all parties to the Rivers crises to sheathe their sword and resort to peaceful means of resolution. The Forum further offers its platform for a quick and just containment of the issues involved.

    “The meeting noted the recent judgment of the Supreme Court on the 2023 Presidential Election and believes that this brings an end to the Presidential election cycle as there must be an end to litigation. 

    “As a Forum, we believe and re-state our faith and confidence in the judiciary to do justice in political and other cases before the courts. 

    “We are concerned that while the Supreme Court has laid down precedents on pre-election issues, PDP candidates in Plateau State are being disqualified on the same grounds. 

    “We urge the judiciary at the apex level to ensure that our jurisprudence is not distorted. We remain vigilant in the struggle for democracy and good governance in the country.

    “The meeting vowed to reposition and strengthen PDP as a viable opposition political party ready and willing to play its role as the vanguard of the Nigerian people for democracy, good governance and accountability.

    “On the national economy, the meeting urgently requested the patriotic intervention of the Federal Government to stabilise the Naira, control inflation, stem the unemployment crises, and bring more succour to Nigerians.

    “The PDP Governors congratulated the host, Governor Seyi Makinde for his hospitality in hosting of the meeting.”

    Governor Fubara attended the meeting. Other governors in attendance are Ahamdu Fintiri (Adamawa), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Enugu State Deputy Governor Ifeanyi Ossai.

    PDP governors laud President on Judicial freedom

    Speaking at the Villa, Muhammed said: “The governors of the PDP, on their behalf, I spoke and extolled the leadership qualities of the President, congratulated him, expressing appreciation that all the PDP governors who had gone through the tribunals have emerged victorious. We know that is leadership.

    “There was professionalism in the conduct, the way and manner the judiciary is working under his leadership and he has shown that he’s a President for everybody; a President for PDP, a President for APC.

    “By intervening today and bringing succour and solace to the people of Rivers and Nigeria, he did not use his big hammer and biro to extricate and emasculate us as opposition.

    “We find this to be very good and going forward, we pledge that we’re going to work with him to bring good governance to the people of Nigeria.”

    At the home front, Rivers elders also appealed to the House of Assembly to shelve impeachment proceedings against the governor.

    Former Governor Ada George, former federal legislator Dr. Dakuku Peterside and former Information Commissioner Ibim Semenitari sued for peace in the interest of the state.

    But, other Southsouth leaders threw their weight behind Fubara, urging him to assert himself and take charge of his government.

    A crisis hit the state on Sunday when suspected arsonists bombed the House of Assembly complex.

    On Monday, the crisis escalated following the decision of the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaehule, to impeach the governor.

    There was confusion as the pro-Fubara lawmakers, led by the sacked Majority Leader, Edison Ehie, made him Speaker.

    The governor, who had stormed the Assembly complex, alleged a security breach against him as chief security officer of the state.

    Rivers: Fubara didn’t sack aides

    The Rivers government denied reports that Fubara had sacked some of his aides and local government chairmen.

    The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Warisenibo Johnson, said in a statement that the report was false.

    He said: “This is to clarify that His Excellency has not given me such directive as the official spokesman of the state government as of today Tuesday, October 31, 2023.

    “Our dear governor is a technocrat, with a robust civil service background, kind-hearted and a very humane person who does things according to laid down rules and with the fear of God.

    “We, therefore, ask Rivers people and the general public to jettison such unconfirmed reports as the public will be properly informed of who may have been removed by His Excellency at the appropriate time.”

    The commissioner also said Fubara has not suspended the ring road project in Port-Harcourt, the state capital.

    He said: “The attention of Rivers State Government has been drawn to news being circulated that the flagship project of Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, the 50.15km Dual Carriage Ring Road has been suspended.

    “We wish to inform Rivers people and the general public to disregard such information as false. 

    “The project is for the advancement of our state and the improvement of the economy of our dear state, therefore nothing whatsoever can stop it at this stage.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, 77 per cent of the contract sum has been paid and the construction firm is making frantic efforts to complete the job within schedule. 

    “Please, let’s be guided as we seek information and news managers should always verify their stories before going to the public space.”

    Fubara recognises new Speaker

    However, Fubara vowed to resist any attempt to disrupt governance in the state under the cover of impeachment.

    The governor, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant, Media, Boniface Onyedi, also recognised Ehie as the new Speaker.

    He insisted that persons planning his impeachment must come clean and list his offences.

    The governor said: “If Siminalayi Fubara is impeached, I am not the first, neither will I be the last. But what is important is any attempt that is not justified will be resisted. 

    “Let them come out and tell Rivers people the offence that I have committed to warrant impeachment.”

    Fubara acknowledged the massive turnout of Rivers people in solidarity as an indication that they were willing to protect the interest of the state.

    He added: “Let me assure Rivers people that I will continue to defend Rivers State, protect the people and make sure that you all enjoy the dividends of democracy.”

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    Fubara urged Ehie, who represents Ahoada East Constituency II, to uphold the sanctity of the law and legislature.

    Ijaw youths condemn impeachment plot

    Members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide vowed to ‘fight’ to thwart the impeachment plot.

    In a statement by the group’s spokesman, Princewill Binebai, the NYC described the move as an attempt to remove the Ijaws from the governance of the state.

    It called on President Tinubu and Inspector-General Egbetokun Olukayode to redeploy the Rivers State Commissioner of Police.

    The group alleged that the CP took sides in the matter involving the governor and the lawmakers following a “display of impunity from security officials firing teargas, gunshots and the spraying of hot water targeted at the governor”.

    It added: “As a council, we are warning that the proponents of this undemocratic act in Rivers State must refrain forthwith from such plot as the IYC Worldwide will fight with all they have to protect the governor, an illustrious Ijaw son.”

    Rivers elders move to halt impeachment

    Rivers elders, including former Governor Peter Odili; Chairman, Rivers Traditional Rulers Council, Ohna Seargent Awuse; Chairman of Rivers Elders Forum, Ferdinand Anabrara; former federal legislator Ken Chikere and former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) OCJ Okocha (SAN), yesterday moved to reconcile the warring gladiators.

    Awuse, Anabrara, Okocha and Chikere held a meeting with Fubara at the Government House on how to end the crisis.

    Although details of the meeting were not disclosed, the elders urged both camps to sheathe their swords.

    Some youths kept vigil at the main gate of the Government House and continued to barricade the area yesterday.

    Former Acting Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dame Ibim Semenitari, warned that political crisis would not favour the state.

    She said the “unnecessary and avoidable” development would be of no benefit to the state, advising political actors to apply the brakes.

    Semenitari, who noted that Rivers had gone through many crises, said at no time was the state the ultimate beneficiary.

    She said: “This state has had too many political crises and was at no time the ultimate winner. 

    “At each time, the economy and the people suffered. We cannot continue to whirl in this sad cesspool while other states move up the political and economic ladder.”

    She condemned the moves to impeach the governor, saying it was outrageous that only six months into the administration, some people would consider such action.

    Semenitari, who also served as Commissioner for Information and Communication, said she was particularly concerned about the role of the security personnel in the saga.

    She called on law enforcement agencies to decipher between loyalty to Nigerian taxpayers and political actors.

    She said: “Our law enforcement agencies should always draw the line between loyalty to Nigerian taxpayers and political actors. 

    “It was bizarre to see Nigeria Police personnel let loose their water canon and teargas canisters on the Rivers State Governor. I condemn it in very clear terms.”

    Chief Rufus Ada George condemned the crisis that led to the bombing of the hallowed chamber of the House of Assembly.

    George in a statement, sued for peace and advised those he described as the dramatis personae in the crisis to seek a quick resolution.

    He said the crisis can lead to violence with unimaginable consequences.

    He also urged the police and other security agencies to deploy men and officers to the flashpoints to de-escalate the crisis and maintain the peace in the state.

    Peterside said the once peaceful Rivers should not be turned into a theatre of the absurd by desperate political actors.

    He said: “I also completely condemn the unwarranted disruption of normal governmental activities by politically motivated interest. 

    “All people of goodwill who love our dear State and democracy must condemn this in no mean measure.

    “In good conscience, impeachment issues cannot arise in less than five months of incumbency. It sends the wrong signal that our state is a land of theatrics.

    “Nothing in the political landscape has shown that the executive governor has compromised the state’s interest or put our state in a severe security quagmire.

    “I have always said that no pursuit of personal interest or ambition can override the interest of Rivers and its people. We, political leaders, must always watch our actions and tame our excesses.

    “I appeal to all political actors to allow time and space for the governor to do his job. Only one governor can function at a time. 

    “I also appeal to members of RSHA to focus on the business of law-making and get less distracted by the pursuit of personal ego or narrow pecuniary interest.

    “I appeal to all leaders in Rivers to intervene in measured terms with the overall interest of our state in mind. Posterity will judge all of us. Let us allow reason to prevail.”

    Youths arrested over attack on Speaker’s residence

    Scores of Ijaw youths were arrested, following their attack on the official reaidence of Speaker Amaewhule.

    The angry youths had invaded Amaewhule’s private residence at the Old GRA in Port Harcourt, but that they were repelled by security operatives, who rushed to the area.

    The youths tried to pull down the gate and gain entry into the compound.

    In a video, the Chairman of the Nigeria Youth Council, Rivers State chapter, Amb. Ihunwo Chijioke, who led the protest, was heard referring to Amaehule as a former speaker.

    He threatened that the youths would burn down the house if he failed to vacate the residence within two hours.

    Chijioke said Amaewhule had been removed as the speaker and had no business occupying the building.

    He said: “Greatest Rivers youths, we are here because the former Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, has been impeached. We are here as Rivers youths to tell him to vacate his official residence because he has been impeached.

    “If not, we are going to destroy this building because it was built by Rivers State money. He has been suspended and he should go back to his house. 

    “We have a new speaker, Edison Ehie. I appeal to everybody to remain calm because they must leave.”

     While trying to stop them from burning the house, the police operatives were said to have shot in different directions, leading to chaos that injured many of them.

    Many of them were arrested for disturbing public peace.

    Youths mainly from the Ijaw extraction have been occupying the main gate of the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt.

    The spokesman of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Bedford Benjamin, who confirmed the development, said the youths had no intention of attacking Amaewhule’s residence.

    He said the aggrieved youths only went there on a peaceful protest and condemned the decision of security agents to open fire.

    Benjamin said there was an unconfirmed report that someone was killed by the bullets, adding that many of the protesters sustained injuries.

    He said one of the youths and Chairman, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Rivers State chapter, Chijioke Ihunwo and many others were arrested and thrown into a cell.

    Bedford said: “We condemn in strong terms the sporadic shooting at peaceful protesters at the factional speaker’s residential area in Rivers state. 

    “One person is feared dead from the shooting; many others sustained gun wounds and other degrees of injuries.

    “We demand the unconditional release of the chairman of Rivers State Youth Council and the numerous Ijaw youths who are being arrested and detained unlawfully. 

    “Peaceful protests are backed by law, and anybody who is bent on usurping the will of the people will be resisted by the people.

    “We urge those saddled with the responsibility of maintaining peace and stability in the state not to play politics in the discharge of their duty as that can lead to further dangerous outcomes.

    “The IYC calls on the Federal Government to step in immediately before the outcome disrupts the economy of the state and by extension the nation. 

    “We can not afford this level of civil criminality in a democratic system.”

    The Rivers Police command was yet to release an official statement on the development.