The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday received a delegation of prominent Niger Delta leaders, led by former President of Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof A.W. Obianime.
The visit to Wike was part of efforts to foster reconciliation between Minister Wike and Governor Sim Fubara of River State.
Dr. Kingsley Kuku issued a statement on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of the Niger Delta’s appreciation for President Bola Tinubu’s inclusion of Minister Wike in his cabinet. The delegation also extended congratulations to the minister on his appointment.
The leaders highlighted the strategic significance of River State to the South-South region and emphasized the need to avoid any crisis within the state. They joined various responsible bodies, including PANDEF, INC, IYC, MOSIEND, MOSOP, Ogbakor Ikwerre, in condemning the alleged attempts at impeaching the State Governor on grounds of ‘gross misconduct’ within the State House of Assembly.
The statement expressed strong disapproval of these actions and called upon any individual, authority, or group involved in this matter to cease their efforts and allow peace to prevail.
Given Wike’s political influence in Rivers, the leaders urged him to step in as a peacemaker, emphasizing that both the executive and legislative bodies consist of his political proteges. They stressed that his intervention was critical in preventing further escalation of the situation.
The statement concluded by urging Wike not to remain silent on this issue, as it would not serve the best interests of Rivers people and Niger Deltans in general. It emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to ensure the situation does not worsen, as the consequences would be detrimental to all parties involved.
The leaders made a compelling plea for Wike to act promptly, underscoring the significance of his role in averting a crisis and maintaining the peace in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region.