Newscenter Media News Amid rising political tensions in Rivers State, the Rivers State Elders Council has issued a stern warning to individuals allegedly fueling discord between Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and former Governor Peter Odili.
In a statement signed on Wednesday, by 45 prominent members, including Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Emmanuel Anyanwu, and Senator Magnus Abe, the council condemned recent remarks by a group of so-called “concerned elders” as baseless and divisive.
The council accused these individuals of using their former closeness to Wike as leverage while now positioning themselves as staunch allies of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The council expressed disappointment over a controversial statement made by Dr. Odili at a Christmas carol service, where he allegedly accused Wike of attempting to “capture Rivers State as his private estate.” This comment, the elders argued, was a clear departure from decorum and unbecoming of a respected elder statesman.
The council also noted that despite Odili’s role in the unfolding political drama, Wike had refrained from making any derogatory remarks about the former governor out of respect.
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“It is deeply unfortunate that Dr. Odili chose to make such disparaging remarks against Nyesom Wike, especially at a public event,” the statement read. “Respect is earned, and Dr. Odili’s comments were a blatant act of disrespect toward someone who has consistently shown him regard.”
The elders urged Odili and those backing him to exercise restraint, particularly in their dealings with Wike. “As a former governor and elder, Dr. Odili should embody wisdom and tact, rather than engage in public verbal attacks aimed at currying favor with the current governor,” the statement said.
The council further accused Odili and his allies of manipulating Governor Fubara for personal gain, calling on them to desist from exploiting the political situation for their own benefit.
“We advise Dr. Peter Odili and his cohorts to kindly leave Chief Nyesom Wike alone while they continue their exploitative manipulations of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, their new benefactor,” the council added.
The statement also took aim at the group of “concerned elders,” describing their interventions as “lacking courage” and motivated by personal interests rather than genuine concern for Rivers State.
“Rather than stoke the embers of conflict, these individuals should focus on fostering unity and addressing the real issues affecting Rivers people,” the statement urged.
The ongoing feud between Wike and Odili, two towering figures in Rivers politics, has become a flashpoint in the state, with concerns over its potential to destabilize the political landscape. As influential voices weigh in, the call for mutual respect and collaboration has grown louder.
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