Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), expressed his admiration for the Ijaw community, characterizing them as “good people” who should not be linked to any negative connotations.
He made these remarks during a Thanksgiving Service in Abalama town, located in the Asari-Toru Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State on Saturday.
The former governor of Rivers State also took the opportunity to discuss significant political matters while reiterating his dedication to maintaining constitutional integrity.
Wike underscored his intention to refrain from interfering with the operations of the Rivers State House of Assembly as they fulfill their constitutional responsibilities.
“I won’t stop the Assembly from carrying out their constitutional duties,” he stated firmly, underscoring his respect for democratic institutions.
The minister seized the opportunity to express his disapproval of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tammy Danagogo, along with other politicians, claiming they have misled the state governor for their own personal gain.
He asserted that the SSG, in collusion with his elder brother, Justice Danagogo, a judge, conspired to secure an ex parte order. This order was allegedly utilized by the governor to present the budget to just four individuals.
“They will lead you to hellfire,” Wike warned, expressing his frustration with what he described as unethical political maneuvers.
Wike strongly denounced efforts to incite ethnic tensions, especially following the recent legal setbacks experienced by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He recalled his previous successes and pledged to persist in overcoming those who aim to oppose him.
“Our effort, our sweat, we cannot be pushed out. All of you suffered, and somebody will just come because they gave him power overnight to tell us to get out. Who told him he can tell us to get out? Will you accept the ‘get out’?” Wike asked the crowd, eliciting strong reactions from the attendees.
The Minister’s address struck a chord with numerous individuals, as he reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the interests of his allies and opposing any efforts to undermine his political framework within the state.
“I have defeated them before, and I’ll continue to defeat them,” he declared, drawing applause from the audience.
The gathering, which included community leaders, political figures, and local residents, underscored the persistent political tensions in Rivers State.