Former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has launched a scathing attack on his predecessor, Dr. Peter Odili, accusing him of self-serving behavior and political opportunism. Wike’s criticisms, delivered during a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt, centered on Odili’s alleged prioritization of personal gain over the welfare of Rivers State and its people. He questioned Odili’s claim that the current governor was attempting to turn the state into his personal estate, ironically pointing to the extensive presence of Odili’s own family members in influential positions within the state government.
Wike’s accusations painted a picture of Odili as a political chameleon, shifting his allegiances and pronouncements based on personal convenience rather than principled leadership. He highlighted Odili’s past praise of Wike’s own governorship, contrasting it with his more recent accolades for the current governor, whom Odili had previously criticized. This inconsistency, according to Wike, exposed Odili’s true nature as a political trader, constantly seeking personal advantage. The Minister further underscored this point by referencing Odili’s alleged influence over appointments, claiming Odili even prioritized his own daughter for a commissioner position over his late brother’s son. This act, Wike argued, further demonstrated Odili’s self-serving tendencies and disregard for familial loyalty.
Wike’s address also delved into the financial aspects of Odili’s influence, referencing the establishment of Pamo University. Wike claimed that Rivers State, under his governorship, had heavily subsidized the university, paying substantial fees for students each semester. This financial support, coupled with Wike’s personal intervention in commissioning the construction of a mansion for Odili, was presented as evidence of Wike’s past generosity towards his predecessor. He contrasted this generosity with Odili’s perceived ingratitude and current political maneuvering. Wike further emphasized the fluctuating nature of Odili’s support, highlighting how his pictures, once prominently displayed throughout Odili’s home, had been removed. This symbolic gesture, according to Wike, was indicative of Odili’s fickle loyalty and opportunistic nature.
The Minister also addressed the issue of succession planning, revealing that Odili was not involved in the process of selecting the current governor. He recalled Odili’s initial criticisms of the current governor’s public speaking abilities, contrasting them with his current support, further illustrating what Wike perceived as Odili’s inconsistent and self-serving behavior. Wike implied that Odili’s current support for the governor was driven by opportunistic motives, seeking to gain favor and influence within the current administration. This, Wike argued, was in stark contrast to his own principled leadership and genuine concern for the state’s future.
Wike’s condemnation extended beyond mere political maneuvering, touching upon Odili’s alleged lack of courage and conviction. He recounted an incident where Odili allegedly abandoned his presidential aspirations due to opposition from former President Obasanjo. This incident, according to Wike, demonstrated Odili’s lack of political backbone and his willingness to compromise his ambitions for personal expediency. Wike further revealed that he had avoided inviting Obasanjo to commission projects in Rivers State out of concern for humiliating Odili, highlighting the personal consideration he had shown his predecessor. This contrasted sharply with what he perceived as Odili’s lack of loyalty and respect.
In closing, Wike reiterated his disappointment in Odili’s conduct, questioning the kind of leadership and guidance that could be expected from such an individual. He expressed concern for the message Odili’s actions sent to his children and the broader public. Wike’s forceful critique of Odili painted a picture of a politician driven by self-interest, constantly shifting allegiances for personal gain, and lacking the courage of his convictions. He contrasted this behavior with his own leadership, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Rivers State and its people. The Minister’s remarks served as a public rebuke of Odili’s alleged political opportunism and a defense of his own legacy as a principled leader.
