Obio/Akpo Local Government Area Chairman, Chijioke Ihunwo, has made scathing allegations against Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, claiming that that the former Rivers State governor is undermining democracy in Nigeria.
During an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Ihunwo criticized Wike’s alleged role in inciting violence in Rivers State. He accused Wike of sponsoring shootings across local governments, threatening democracy under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Ihunwo reassured the public that despite recent violent clashes and protests, everyone in Rivers State is fine. He urged citizens to continue with their daily responsibilities, downplaying the situation.
The chairman drew parallels between Wike’s current actions and his past treatment of Rotimi Amaechi. Ihunwo claimed Rivers people have rejected Wike’s attempts to control the state like a “private industry.”
Wike’s political career has been marred by controversy, including a nullified election in 2015 and electoral malpractice allegations. His appointment as FCT Minister by President Tinubu in August 2023 sparked debate.
The accusations come amidst reports of violence and protests in several Rivers State local government areas following recent elections. Ihunwo’s statements highlight the ongoing political tensions in the region.
Ihunwo said, “We want to tell Nigerians that nobody can destroy our Local Government. The local government has always been there even before the Minister of the FCT came in to become a chairman.”
The local government chairman further criticized Wike for allegedly inciting violence in the region.
“Sponsoring people to start shooting here and there across the local governments is laughable. And Wike is threatening democracy in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu,” he stated.
Ihunwo reassured the public, insisting that “everyone in Rivers State is fine” and urging citizens to carry on with their daily responsibilities.
“Two people can’t be mad at the same time. What’s happening in Rivers is more or less laughable,” he stated.
The Obio/Akpo chairman also drew parallels between the current political situation and past events, stating, “We know that what goes around, comes around.
“Wike did the same to Rotimi Amaechi. Today, Rivers people did the same to him because he has refused to leave Rivers State alone.”
Ihunwo accused Wike of attempting to control the state as if it were his “private industry,” asserting that the people of Rivers State have rejected such dominance.
