Former Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Ene Obi, has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to steer clear of Rivers State politics and allow Governor Siminalayi Fubara to lead without interference.
Obi, a prominent human rights advocate, made this statement during an interview with Arise TV on Thursday, amid ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.
Expressing disappointment over the state’s underutilized potential due to political infighting, Obi urged both Wike and Governor Fubara to turn a new leaf. “Rivers State citizens need to speak up. We’re exhausted by this conflict. Both Fubara and Wike need to realize they are not the only Nigerians. On the day Rivers held its elections, there were many others across the country, yet Rivers became everyone’s focus due to these issues. It’s time they stepped back; they’re not more entitled than the rest of the citizens,” she remarked.
Obi stressed the need for Wike, who served as Rivers State governor before his current FCT role, to move on and allow the state to thrive independently. She highlighted the tendency of some former governors to retain control over state affairs even after leaving office, likening it to the influence of political “godfathers” who drain state resources and undermine governance.
Recalling similar cases, Obi lamented how allocations meant to improve citizens’ lives often end up in the hands of a powerful few. “Treasuries are being looted by those who should be safeguarding public funds. This pattern impoverishes millions and stifles growth,” she added.
Addressing the broader impact of political decisions, Obi pointed out how youth unemployment, business closures, and productivity losses are eroding Nigeria’s potential. She cited the nation’s youth population as a vital resource, with 62% of Nigerians under 30. “That youth base is a tremendous asset, but we’re squandering it. Nigeria has four refineries that remain non-operational, making us the only OPEC nation not refining its own crude. Contrast that with the U.S., which operates 129 refineries. The lost opportunities from refinery by-products alone have crippled industries,” Obi noted.
Obi highlighted how Rivers State, as an oil-producing hub, could create jobs and drive economic progress if not bogged down by political battles. “Rivers should be an industrial heartland, employing thousands, yet it’s becoming a battlefield. Do they realize their actions affect Nigeria’s future? It’s time for both Wike and Fubara to embrace genuine change,” she urged.
