Dr. Femi Okurounmu, a prominent Afenifere leader, has been advised to avoid comments that could undermine his reputation as an elder statesman, particularly in situations where objectivity might be compromised.
Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, reacted to Okurounmu’s remarks, which accused President Bola Tinubu of not adequately addressing the crisis in Rivers State. Olayinka questioned what actions Okurounmu expected the President to take.
Olayinka criticized Okurounmu, a former Senator, for allegedly ignoring the continued disregard for court rulings by Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, arguing that such behaviour undermines democracy and peace.
He further noted that Okurounmu was the first Senator ever suspended by his colleagues, suggesting this might influence his current stance.
Okurounmu had previously claimed that Wike was behind the crisis in Rivers State, saying that Wike was treating Fubara, whom he referred to as Wike’s “godson,” as a puppet rather than as an independent governor.
In response, Olayinka questioned whether Wike had ever suggested Fubara should act as his surrogate and emphasized that Okurounmu should reflect on his role in Fubara’s rise to governor.
According to Olayinka, Yoruba elders typically seek to mediate conflicts fairly rather than assigning blame from afar, as he accused Okurounmu of doing.
Olayinka asked if Wike was responsible for the recent arson attack at the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex, which was intended to prevent lawmakers from fulfilling their duties, or for the irregular use of only three members out of the 32-member Assembly to conduct legislative work, such as passing budgets and confirming commissioners.
Furthermore, he accused Fubara of repeatedly disregarding court orders, including a recent Court of Appeal decision invalidating the 2024 state budget signed by the governor.
Olayinka expressed shock that Okurounmu had overlooked the impact of Fubara’s disregard for the rule of law on Nigerian democracy and stability.
Addressing Okurounmu’s criticism of President Tinubu’s response, Olayinka asked what specific actions the elder statesman expected from the President—whether he anticipated that Tinubu would defy court decisions to support Fubara’s alleged disregard for the law.