A group of concerned elders from Rivers State has strongly condemned the recent verbal attack by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on former Governor Peter Odili. The elders described Wike’s comments as “unbecoming and disrespectful,” emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable in Rivers State’s culture, which values respect for elders and tradition.The controversy began when Wike claimed that he had brought Odili out of political obscurity, referring to him as a “General Overseer” due to the appointments of Odili’s wife and daughter to key positions in Rivers State. However, the elders argued that Wike’s criticism was unjustified, highlighting that there is no law prohibiting the qualified relatives of former leaders from holding public office.The elders also defended Odili’s achievements, including the establishment of the Pamo University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), a privately funded project that has benefited Rivers State through collaboration with the government. They commended Odili for his vision and contributions to the state, emphasizing that he deserves respect and gratitude rather than vilification. Furthermore, the elders linked Wike’s outburst to Odili’s advice against an alleged impeachment plot targeting the current Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. They argued that Wike’s refusal to heed Odili’s warning and his continued plotting to destabilize the government led to the controversy.
In conclusion, the Rivers elders have demanded an unreserved apology from Wike to Odili, his family, and the people of Rivers State. They emphasized that Wike’s actions have caused monumental embarrassment to the state and undermined the values of respect and decorum that are essential to Rivers State’s culture.
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