In a recent interview, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State, expressed his concerns regarding current developments in the region under Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike accused Fubara of ignoring a court judgment and emphasized that this disregard for the rule of law could lead to a state of chaos and potential anarchy. He underscored the significant risks associated with failing to uphold court decisions, arguing that such actions invite violence and further destabilization within the state. Wike’s comments reflect a broader concern for maintaining order and adhering to legal frameworks that govern state actions and political conduct.
Wike specifically highlighted a troubling statement made by Fubara during a national television broadcast, where the governor reportedly declared his intent to disregard a court ruling. This public defiance of the judiciary raised alarms for Wike, who has positioned himself as an advocate for lawful governance. He warned that the rejection of court judgments not only undermines legal authority but can also contribute to escalating political tensions in Rivers State, particularly as these tensions have been exacerbated by recent unrest and violence in the region.
Furthermore, Wike criticized Fubara’s stance on police involvement in the local government elections. Wike’s remarks come against the backdrop of a heightened atmosphere of political strife, marked by protests and violent outbreaks in the state. The unrest was ignited following a directive from Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, which ordered the unsealing of local government secretariats and the withdrawal of police presence that had been in place since July. This decision rattled the already tense political landscape and drew criticism from various stakeholders, including the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress, who had previously withdrawn from participating in the elections.
Despite the withdrawal of major political parties and the police from the local government elections, Fubara insisted that the elections would proceed, resulting in a controversial electoral process. Amidst continuing tensions, the Action People’s Party emerged victorious, securing 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions, while the Action Alliance won one seat. This outcome underscored the fraught nature of political contests in Rivers State, which have been marred by allegations of violence and intimidation. Following these results, Fubara wasted no time swearing in the newly elected chairmen, a move seen by many as provocative given the prevailing atmosphere of unrest.
However, the immediate aftermath of the elections proved turbulent, as reports of violent attacks against newly sworn-in officials surfaced, with some council secretariats reportedly set ablaze by political opponents. This spate of violence raised serious concerns about the safety of elected officials and the capacity of law enforcement to maintain order during such politically charged times. Wike placed part of the blame for this unrest squarely on Fubara’s shoulders, suggesting that his administration’s actions—particularly regarding the disregard for the rule of law—have contributed to the destabilization of the region.
In response to the escalating violence, President Bola Tinubu directed law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of local government secretariats throughout Rivers State. This intervention reflects a recognition of the urgent need for measures to restore order and prevent further bloodshed. The situation in Rivers State serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to legal frameworks in governance, and the consequences that can arise when political leaders choose to act outside of established laws. As the state grapples with these challenges, the discourse around governance, rule of law, and political responsibility remains crucial for the maintenance of peace and democracy in the region.
