Bode George urges Tinubu to restrain Wike over Rivers political crisis

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his remarks regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.

In a statement, George described Wike’s comments as inflammatory and potentially damaging to Tinubu’s peace efforts in the state.

He warned that the minister’s rhetoric could escalate tensions and destabilize the region.

He noted that despite Tinubu’s meeting with Niger Delta leaders to find a resolution, Wike’s public statements had undermined those efforts.

“If I were the President, I wouldn’t tolerate a minister publicly embarrassing my administration in this manner,” George said, emphasizing that the stability of Rivers State is crucial for Nigeria’s economy.

He also questioned Wike’s claims of political supremacy, reminding him that he, too, rose to power with the help of others.

“Did he rise to prominence on his own? Someone made him a council chairman, Chief of Staff, Minister, and later Governor. Now, someone has appointed him as a minister. So why is he acting as if he is above everyone?” George asked.

Expressing concerns over Wike’s perceived overreach, he criticized the minister for acting as though he controlled all arms of government in Rivers State.

“Is he the Commander-in-Chief? The Chief Justice? The Speaker of the State Assembly? Wike talks as if he has absolute authority, even over Tinubu,” he added.

George likened the current political situation to past crises in Nigeria’s history, warning that while the beginning of a conflict is known, its outcome is often unpredictable.

He also questioned Wike’s decision to pay for a televised broadcast to assert his political influence in Rivers State, calling it unnecessary.

“No minister spends money on a live broadcast just to prove they are a godfather,” he said, condemning Wike’s claim that “nothing will happen” if Governor Siminalayi Fubara is removed from office.

Furthermore, he urged Wike’s wife, Justice Eberechi Wike, to step in and advise the minister to embrace peace, especially during the season of Lent.

George also referenced legal expert Professor Chidi Odinkalu’s analysis of the situation, stating that it presents an objective perspective on the crisis.

Concluding his remarks, he warned that the turmoil in Rivers State could be part of a broader strategy by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to take control of the state.

“I see this as an APC game plan, and I urge Tinubu to call Wike to order before the situation escalates further,” George stated.