Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has downplayed concerns that impeaching Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara would lead to instability. Speaking on the ongoing political crisis in the state, Wike insisted that impeachment is a constitutional process and should not be feared if there are valid grounds.
He also mocked claims that Niger Delta militants would react violently to any impeachment attempt, questioning the legitimacy of such threats. Wike specifically dismissed the notion that only Ijaw people are capable of disrupting pipelines, arguing that other ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, such as the Ogoni and Ikwerre, also have such capabilities.
Wike further criticized the leadership of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), accusing the group of being politically and financially motivated in its shifting stance on President Bola Tinubu’s involvement in the Rivers crisis. He also condemned Governor Fubara’s approach to resolving the conflict, calling his public letter to the state House of Assembly ineffective and insulting.
Additionally, the minister expressed doubts about the feasibility of local government elections in Rivers State, scheduled for August 2025, citing concerns over the refusal of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission chairman to appear before the Assembly.
