Niger Delta Monarchs Urge President Tinubu to Sack Nyesom Wike Over Rivers State Crisis

By CHUKWUMA OFILLI

Niger Delta Kings Call for Nyesom Wike’s Removal Over Political Crisis in Rivers State

Amid escalating political tension in Rivers State, prominent Niger Delta monarchs, HRM King Dodo II of Bilabiri Kingdom, Bayelsa State, and HRH King Jerry Prebor of the Meinbutus Federal Communities in Warri, Delta State, have called on President Bola Tinubu to either remove or caution the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The traditional rulers believe that Wike’s political maneuvers are worsening the crisis in Rivers State and could pose a significant challenge for the president ahead of the 2027 elections.

Niger Delta Monarchs Sound Warning to Tinubu

Speaking against the backdrop of recent violent incidents, including the bombing of the Trans-Niger pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State, the traditional rulers expressed concerns that Wike’s actions could destabilize the oil-rich region.

King Prebor, in an interview with Vanguard, stated, “Given the current political turmoil in Rivers State and its possible consequences, I strongly urge President Tinubu, as Wike’s employer, to either sack him now or rein him in before things spiral out of control.”

• Rivers State Political Crisis: Breakdown of Wike vs. Fubara Power Struggle
• https://www.thecheernews.com/tinubu-blocks-babajide-sanwo-olus-influence-in-lagos-assembly-lawmakers/

Similarly, Niger Delta King Dodo II emphasized the need for urgent intervention, warning that Wike’s continued influence in Rivers State could alienate the president from the people of the region. “The president must take the situation in Rivers State seriously and act swiftly. He should not become the enemy of Rivers people due to Wike’s selfish ambitions,” he stated.

Niger Delta: Political Unrest in Rivers State Deepens

Rivers State has been witnessing heightened political tension following a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the FCT. The ongoing crisis has led to violent clashes, legal battles, and growing concerns among stakeholders in the region.

The recent attack on the Trans-Niger pipeline, a vital infrastructure for oil transportation, has further complicated matters. Analysts believe that the crisis could impact Nigeria’s oil production and revenue generation, making it imperative for the federal government to take decisive action.

The 2027 Elections and Wike’s Political Influence

Political observers speculate that Wike is positioning himself strategically for the 2027 elections, either as a presidential aspirant or a key power broker. His continued involvement in Rivers State politics, despite being appointed as a minister, has raised eyebrows among political analysts and stakeholders in the region.

Niger Delta King Prebor warned that Wike’s political ambitions might not align with national stability, stating, “The president must carefully evaluate the long-term implications of retaining Wike in his administration. His actions in Rivers State suggest he is more focused on personal political gains than on fostering peace and stability.”

Stakeholders Call for Peace and Stability

Beyond the monarchs, other stakeholders, including civil society organizations, have urged President Tinubu to prioritize resolving the Rivers State political crisis. Some argue that Wike’s removal from the federal cabinet might help de-escalate tensions and allow Governor Fubara to govern without undue interference.

A political analyst, Dr. Emmanuel Ibekwe, noted, “The crisis in Rivers State is not just about politics; it affects economic stability, governance, and the well-being of the people. The president must act decisively to ensure that the situation does not spiral further out of control.”

Federal Government’s Response and the Way Forward

So far, the presidency has not issued an official statement regarding the calls for Wike’s removal. However, sources close to the presidency suggest that Tinubu is closely monitoring the situation in Rivers State.

Meanwhile, security agencies have been urged to increase vigilance in the Niger Delta region to prevent further attacks on critical infrastructure, such as pipelines and government buildings.

Conclusion: Will Tinubu Act on the Niger Delta Monarchs’ Advice?

With the growing calls for Nyesom Wike’s removal, all eyes are now on President Bola Tinubu to see how he will handle the situation. His decision could shape the political landscape of Rivers State and influence the trajectory of the 2027 elections.

As tension continues to rise, stakeholders emphasize the need for dialogue, reconciliation, and a clear roadmap for peace in Rivers State.

Stay updated for further developments on this unfolding political crisis.

#NyesomWike, #RiversStatePolitics, #Tinubu, #NigerDelta, #PoliticalCrisis, #NigeriaPolitics, #NyesomWike, #RiversStateCrisis, #Tinubu, #NigerDelta, #PoliticalTension,

Dayo Adesulu, online editor, SEO expert