Niger Delta leaders visit Wike, urge peaceful resolution of Rivers crisis

“All Eyes Are On You” – Niger Delta Elders Visit WIke, Tell Him What To Do About Rivers State Political Crisis

Leaders from various ethnic groups in the Niger Delta region recently visited Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory minister, to express their gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and congratulate Mr. Wike on his appointment.

The delegation, comprising 60 prominent Niger Delta leaders, was led by Prof A.W. Obianime, a former president of the Ijaw National Congress (INC).

Regarding the ongoing political situation in Rivers, these leaders emphasized the significance of stability in the state, given its crucial role in the South-South region.

They expressed their concerns about the turmoil and joined other responsible bodies in the Niger Delta, such as PANDEF, INC, IYC, MOSIEND, MOSOP, Ogbakor Ikwerre, in condemning attempts to impeach the State Governor on frivolous grounds of ‘gross misconduct.’

They strongly advised against any involvement in further exacerbating the situation, urging all parties to prioritize peace.

Recognizing Mr. Wike’s political influence in Rivers, the leaders appealed to him to mediate and restore peace.

They emphasized the potential consequences of continued conflict and the negative image it would create for the people of Rivers and the Niger Delta as a whole.

Solidarity Visit of Niger Delta Leaders to Nyesom Wike: Calls for Peace and Unity in Rivers State

They implored Mr. Wike to play a peacemaking role and not remain silent on the matter.

The leaders, hailing from various states in the Niger Delta, expressed their support for Mr. Wike, particularly in response to recent comments by Sheik Gumi.

They criticized Gumi’s attempt to claim exclusive control over Abuja’s administration by a specific ethno-religious region, deeming it divisive and irresponsible.

They commended the widespread criticism of Gumi’s statement and the rejection of his position by the Northern Elders Forum.

The statement underlined Mr. Wike’s strong socio-political foundation in the Niger Delta and criticized Gumi’s call for the minister’s removal and his threat to withdraw electoral and political support from the President in 2027.

The leaders questioned Gumi’s authority to make such threats and his significance in Nigerian politics.

The Niger Delta leaders urged Mr. Wike to disregard these distractions and stay focused on his ministerial duties…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>