Governor of Rivers State Siminalayi Fubara has been criticized by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, who asserted that “nobody has the monopoly of causing violence.”
Wike made this statement during a speech at the Rivers State Ijaw Peoples Congress held in Port Harcourt, which was organized in his honor on Saturday. The former Rivers governor used the platform to address the growing tensions between his administration and Fubara, dismissing claims that the latter represents the views of the entire Ijaw community in the state’s ongoing political tussle.
Wike emphasized that, despite current rivalries, his leadership efforts had benefitted the Ijaw people in many ways, and he challenged the narrative that Fubara spoke for the entire community.
Addressing the gathered audience, Wike said: “Let me first express my gratitude to this group for hosting such a strategic meeting today. Senator Johnson Nsakebor approached me on behalf of the Rivers Ijaw Congress, saying they wanted to honor me. Initially, I asked, ‘What’s the point of this honor? Why waste the resources?’ I even told them, ‘If you have money to spare, why not give it to me instead?’ But Nsakebor explained that too many individuals were appearing on television, claiming to speak for the Ijaw people, and he wanted to clarify the true sentiments. So, I agreed to come here today and ensure Nigerians hear the truth.”
He continued, “This gathering today sends a clear message to those in Abuja who might not understand the situation. If you ever hear someone say the Ijaw people are against me, that’s simply not true. Every community has its share of dissenters—just as a father may have twelve children, with one becoming a criminal, it doesn’t mean the whole family shares the same path. There are always a few ungrateful individuals in any group.”
Wike also took aim at those whom he believed were fueling the tension by spreading misinformation. “For those claiming that the Ijaw people are against me, ask them who has done more for the Ijaw people? Every Ijaw representative in the House of Assembly today has been positioned there during my time. What has Fubara done for the Ijaw community in comparison?” he questioned. “These are envious individuals who cannot match our progress. We’ve defeated them politically several times, and if given the chance, we’ll defeat them again.”
Wike proudly reminded the crowd of his contributions to the Ijaw community, saying, “It was through God’s grace and the collective efforts of all of us here that an Ijaw man was made governor of Rivers State. We all worked tirelessly, sacrificing sleep and dedicating ourselves to this cause. So, who truly cares for the Ijaw people more—those on television, or us, who delivered real results?”
He went on to challenge his critics, asserting, “These people who claim to be so powerful, who are they? If they had any real influence, would the Ijaw people have ever been without a governor before now? Where have they been all these years?”
In a more direct statement, Wike warned, “I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—nobody has a monopoly on causing violence. Just because we choose to abide by the rule of law, remain calm, and ensure Rivers State remains a safe place for investors, doesn’t mean we can’t act. We will continue to ensure peace, but no one should mistake our restraint for weakness.”
The former governor’s speech concluded with a reaffirmation of his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Rivers State, despite the ongoing political drama and rivalry. Wike urged all sides to focus on the bigger picture—sustaining development and safeguarding the state’s future.