Bode George appeals to Tinubu, saying, ‘Tell Wike to give Fubara some room.
On Monday, Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), called for Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to be given the space to govern effectively and deliver the benefits of democracy to the people.
In a statement, George urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and restrain the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. He said, “Now that the people of Rivers State have exercised their civic and constitutional rights by participating in the local government elections, it’s time for former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to step back and allow Governor Fubara to focus on his duties and provide for the people.”
George emphasized that President Tinubu should remind Wike, as a member of his cabinet, to let the governor fulfill his role. He warned, “If our democracy falters, Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief, will bear the heaviest burden.”
Reflecting on the political climate in Rivers, George drew historical parallels, cautioning that the current tensions could mirror the crisis in the defunct Western Region between 1962 and 1966, which culminated in the first military coup. He reminded that this period of unrest had devastating consequences, including the loss of many national figures and a subsequent civil war from 1967 to 1970, claiming nearly two million lives.
Expressing concern about the situation in Rivers, George described it as a “man-made crisis” that could spiral into a much larger national issue. He pointed out Rivers’ vital economic role and stressed that any threat to its peace could have serious security implications, not just for Nigeria but for West Africa and the African continent as a whole.
While acknowledging the importance of political ambition, George urged that it should not conflict with the people’s needs. He noted that some believe the current turmoil is tied to calculations for the 2027 elections but argued it is too early to focus on that.
“Nyesom Wike was governor for eight years and left office in May last year. Now, he is the FCT Minister, while Governor Fubara is the elected leader of the state. He should be given the chance to govern. No one remains in power indefinitely,” George stated. He added that in 2027, the people of Rivers will make their own decision at the ballot box, as is done in democracies.
In closing, George warned that the ongoing political crisis could undermine Nigeria’s democracy if it goes unchecked and called on both Wike and President Tinubu to ensure peace prevails.
