Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has blamed Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for the ongoing political unrest in the state. 

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, Wike accused Fubara of inciting violence by proceeding with local government elections despite legal concerns.

“No person who believes in peace and stability of any nation will say he supports violence, will say he wants to support destruction, will say he doesn’t want people to live in harmony,” Wike said.

The minister emphasized the importance of understanding the root causes of instability, highlighting that a refusal to respect the rule of law is a recipe for chaos. “When there’s violence, when there’s instability, it’s for you to ask questions: what has led to the violence, what has led to the instability, what has led to destruction?” Wike stated, drawing on his experience as a former governor.

Wike pointed to a recent statement by Governor Fubara, in which the latter allegedly dismissed the authority of court rulings. “The moment you don’t obey judgement, you’re inviting anarchy and violence,” Wike warned. He further criticized Fubara for saying that he did not require police protection, claiming this stance encouraged disorder. “When someone says he doesn’t need police and protection of lives and property, he’s inviting anarchy. The governor is the architect of the violence”, he added. 

The accusations come amidst rising tensions in Rivers State, with both political leaders at odds over governance decisions.