Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has asserted that no amount of blackmail will lead to peace in Rivers State.
To achieve lasting peace, Wike emphasized the need for genuine involvement from all key stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly.
He noted that the declaration of emergency rule had prevented potential disasters in the state.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers, made these remarks during a Thanksgiving service celebrating the 70th birthday of former federal lawmaker Ken Chikere in Port Harcourt on Friday.
The FCT minister criticized the ongoing protests in the state, stating they would not reinstate the suspended leaders.
He also condemned traditional rulers and other leaders for taking sides in the political turmoil, claiming they had failed to make sincere efforts to mediate between the conflicting parties.
Wike criticized the monarchs for failing to make a genuine effort to mediate between the conflicting parties in the ongoing crisis.
“One month after the President wisely declared a state of emergency to prevent anarchy in Rivers State, I challenge any so-called elder, including the traditional rulers, to explain what steps they have taken to restore peace in the state.
“Merely appearing on television to insult others will not lead to peace. We have always maintained that those who benefit from chaos are pleased when conflict arises. When there is no crisis, they find themselves without resources. Such individuals cannot be considered true elders.”
He also condemned the women who protested naked in the streets, demanding an end to the emergency rule and the reinstatement of elected leaders.
Wike emphasized that true peace in the state can only be achieved through sincere reconciliation between the parties involved, regardless of their political affiliations or interests.
“There is no need to subject our women to public humiliation by protesting in the nude. Such actions will not contribute to a resolution.”
“If you are truly sincere, everyone would recognize it. Some individuals have reached out to me, and I welcomed them. However, simply seeing me alone does not lead to peace. It’s essential to involve key stakeholders in the peacemaking process. No one can be left out; excluding any group means we cannot achieve complete peace.
Members of both the State Assembly and the National Assembly need to participate, along with representatives from the two political parties and other leaders. This inclusive approach will help us determine their genuine commitment to pursuing peace.”
