by Deborah Nnamdi
The Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss Nyesom Wike as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Ihunwo accuses Wike of undermining democracy and disrupting the recent local government elections in Rivers State.
In an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, Ihunwo argued that Wike’s actions are a threat to national peace. “Rivers State is peaceful; there is no need for a state of emergency.
“However, Mr. President must call Nyesom Wike to order. He’s not above the law, and he cannot control Rivers State. The state is too big for him to dominate.”
“Wike doesn’t deserve a place in the President’s cabinet. Other ministers focus on their jobs without causing crises in their home states. Wike should do the same instead of creating conflict.”
Ihunwo described the violent aftermath of the local elections, where hoodlums attempted to storm and destroy council offices. “We saw the damage before we arrived, and soon after, gunshots were heard from across the road. Security forces managed to prevent further destruction, but it’s clear that these incidents were instigated.”
Despite the unrest, Ihunwo remains confident in the strength of local governance. “No one can destroy the local government. It has existed long before Wike became a minister, and it will continue to thrive. His attempts to destabilize it are laughable.”
Ihunwo also drew parallels between Wike’s current struggles and his past conflicts with former Governor Rotimi Amaechi. “What goes around comes around. Wike did this to Amaechi, and now Rivers people are standing up to him. He wants to turn the state into his personal empire, but we have said no.”
In closing, Ihunwo assured the public of his commitment to peace. “We are promoting calm and peace despite the challenges. Our governor is a man of conscience and will do the right thing. As for the youth being used to create chaos, I urge them to reconsider and stand down.”
