The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has outlined the necessary conditions for achieving lasting peace amid the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State.
Speaking at a church thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt on Friday, held in honour of former federal lawmaker Ken Chikere’s 70th birthday, Wike emphasized that peace would only return if all parties approach reconciliation with genuine sincerity. He noted that the emergency measures initiated by the federal government had averted major disaster in the state.
Wike criticized traditional rulers and state leaders who, according to him, have taken sides with the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He accused them of failing to make any serious effort toward reconciliation since the crisis began.
“One month after Mr President wisely declared a state of emergency to save Rivers from anarchy, I challenge any so-called elders or traditional rulers—what concrete steps have they taken to foster reconciliation?” Wike asked. “No amount of media attacks or public insults can bring peace. Only sincere action can.”
The former Rivers State governor also condemned women who protested naked on the streets, demanding an end to the emergency rule and the reinstatement of suspended elected officials. He described such protests as embarrassing and counterproductive.
“There is no need to disgrace our women,” Wike said. “No amount of blackmail or theatrics can restore peace. Only humility and a genuine willingness to put the state’s interest above personal ambition can achieve that.”
He stressed that true reconciliation must involve all stakeholders, including members of both the State and National Assembly, leaders of the two dominant political parties, and other influential figures.
“Meeting me alone does not equate to making peace,” Wike stated. “Everyone must be involved—no group should be left out. Otherwise, the reconciliation process will lack credibility.”
Encouraging his loyalists, particularly the 27 members of the State Assembly present at the event, Wike urged them to celebrate their recent victory at the Supreme Court.
“You must go home and jubilate,” he said. “The Assembly maintained their seats. Forget that kangaroo election. If anyone says you are nobody, they clearly have a mental problem.”
Wike concluded by reiterating that Rivers State needs peace—but that peace must be built on total sincerity, not deceit or political gamesmanship.