The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday criticized the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara saying, “nobody has the monopoly of causing violence.”
The Minister made this remark while speaking at the Rivers State Ijaw Peoples Congress held in his honour in Port Harcourt, the State capital.
Addressing the perception that Governor Fubara represents the collective views of the Ijaw community in the state’s political landscape, Wike said,”Let me thank this team for organizing this strategic meeting today. First, when Senator Johnson Nsakebor approached me, saying that the Rivers Ijaw Congress wanted to honour me, I asked why they wanted to waste such money.
“I need the money, give it to me. But he explained that many people go on television, speaking as though they represent the Ijaw people. So, I said I would come to set the record straight.”
Wike dismissed claims that he is at odds with the Ijaw community, stating that such rumors are unfounded. He compared the Ijaw people to a family, highlighting that, like any family, not all members share the same views or conduct.
“This gathering today is a message to those in Abuja who misunderstand. If anyone claims that the Ijaw people are fighting me, that’s simply untrue,” Wike declared.
“There are ungrateful people everywhere. A father can have twelve children, and one may become an armed robber. That doesn’t mean the entire family are robbers.”
Wike went on to question Fubara’s political achievements, particularly in empowering members of the Ijaw community, while contrasting it with his own record.
“Who has Fubara made? Everything you see are people envious of our success. They couldn’t do what we have done. If the opportunity arises again, we will defeat them once more,” he stated confidently.
Wike reminded the audience that he was instrumental in making an Ijaw man the governor of Rivers State, referencing Fubara’s election.
“I made an Ijaw man governor. God used us, and we all had sleepless nights making that happen. Who loves the Ijaw more—those on television, or those like us who have delivered?”
Addressing concerns about the political climate, Wike stressed that his approach has always been rooted in the rule of law, maintaining stability and encouraging investment in Rivers State.
He added with a stern warning saying, “I’ve told people, nobody has a monopoly on causing violence. Just because we choose to follow the rule of law doesn’t mean we can’t respond if necessary.”
The speech highlighted Wike’s continued influence in Rivers State politics and his readiness to defend his legacy amid rising tensions with the state’s leadership.