Former Publicity Secretary of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, has called for the immediate removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, citing his alleged role in the ongoing political crisis rocking Rivers State. Chief Sara-Igbe, a respected elder statesman and prominent voice in the Niger Delta region, made this demand during an appearance on Arise News TV, where he expressed deep concern over the deteriorating political situation in the state.
Chief Sara-Igbe leveled serious allegations against Wike, accusing him of being responsible for the bombing of Ogoniland, a historically significant and environmentally devastated region in Rivers State. He claimed that Wike’s actions during his tenure as governor and beyond have contributed to the instability and violence in the area, further exacerbating the suffering of the Ogoni people. Sara-Igbe described this as a grave injustice to the people of Ogoniland, who have long struggled for environmental justice and political representation.
In addition to the allegations related to Ogoniland, Chief Sara-Igbe accused Wike of fueling the current political instability in Rivers State. He argued that Wike’s continued interference in the state’s politics, even after leaving office as governor, has created a toxic and divisive environment. According to Sara-Igbe, Wike’s actions have undermined the authority of the current administration led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and have polarized the state, pitting political factions against each other.
The elder statesman did not mince words in his criticism, stating that Wike’s behavior amounts to an insult to the elders and citizens of Rivers State. He emphasized that the people of Rivers State deserve leaders who prioritize the collective good over personal ambitions and political vendettas. Sara-Igbe further lamented that Wike’s actions have distracted from the urgent need for governance and development in the state, which is a critical economic hub in Nigeria.
Chief Sara-Igbe also called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action by relieving Wike of his duties as FCT Minister. He argued that allowing Wike to remain in such a strategic position while allegedly fueling political instability in Rivers State sends the wrong message and could embolden other political actors to engage in similar behavior. Sara-Igbe urged the president to prioritize national unity and the rule of law by addressing the situation in Rivers State before it escalates further.
