The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticized the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, emphasizing that “nobody holds a monopoly on violence.”
Wike made these remarks during a speech in Port Harcourt on Saturday at the Rivers State Ijaw Peoples Congress, an event held in his honor. The former Rivers State governor also took the opportunity to challenge the prevailing notion that Fubara represented the views of the entire Ijaw community, highlighting the competition for influence and dominance within the state.
Expressing his gratitude to the organizers of the event, Wike said: “When Senator Johnson Nsakebor approached me on behalf of the Rivers Ijaw Congress to inform me that they wished to honor me, I questioned the purpose of such a gesture. I asked why they would spend money on such an event when I would rather have the money. He explained that many people had taken to television, speaking as though they represented the Ijaw people. I agreed to attend, so I could address this misrepresentation.”
Wike then sent a clear message to political figures in Abuja, saying, “This gathering today is a response to those who misunderstand the situation. If anyone claims that the Ijaw people are in conflict with me, it’s simply not true. Ungrateful individuals exist in every group. A family could have twelve children, and one may stray into criminality. Does that make the entire family criminals?”
Addressing the accusations further, Wike stated, “Some are appearing on television, claiming that the Ijaw people are against me. But who has Fubara empowered? These are individuals envious of our achievements, people we have defeated politically time and again. Given another opportunity, we will defeat them again.”
Wike also highlighted his role in the political advancement of the Ijaw community, pointing out that under his leadership, an Ijaw man, Fubara, was elected governor of Rivers State. “God used us, and we all worked tirelessly to make it happen. So, who truly cares more about the Ijaw people? Is it those who appear on television, unable to elevate their own Ijaw brothers politically? If they were as powerful as they claim, why hadn’t an Ijaw person become governor earlier?” he asked.
Concluding his speech, Wike warned against any further attempts to stir unrest, stating, “I’ve made it clear that no one has a monopoly on violence. Just because we choose to follow the rule of law and maintain peace so that investors aren’t scared away doesn’t mean we are weak. That will remain our course.”
