The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has sharply criticized the former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, accusing him of reducing himself to a "sycophant" and a "trader" rather than maintaining the dignity expected of an elder statesman.
Speaking at a Special Thanksgiving Service in Port Harcourt on Sunday, Wike expressed disappointment that Odili, a figure often regarded as a father figure in the state, was now engaging in political sycophancy. He questioned Odili's motives, asking, "Must you be a trader all the time? As governor for eight years, what else are you looking for?"
Wike’s comments were in response to remarks made by Odili on social media, where he praised the current governor for thwarting efforts to turn the state into a personal estate. Wike, in his retort, accused Odili of hypocrisy, pointing to the former governor’s own family members holding significant positions, including his wife as a governing council chairperson, and his daughters in prominent roles. Wike questioned who, between him and Odili, had truly turned the state into a personal estate.
The FCT Minister also reflected on Odili's past praise of his governance, recalling how Odili had once praised him as the best governor in the state's history, claiming that no past leader had done better. Wike recounted his own support for Odili, including funding his university and providing personal assistance, only to see the former governor turn against him politically after he left office.
In further criticism, Wike highlighted Odili's shifting political loyalties, pointing out that while Odili had once disparaged the current governor, he was now organizing a Christmas Carol in his honor. Wike lamented Odili’s inconsistency and questioned what lessons could be learned from such behavior.
Asserting his focus on his duties in Abuja, Wike remarked that Odili’s sycophantic behavior would not elevate him to the level of success Wike had achieved. He further recalled Odili’s failed presidential ambitions and his withdrawal from the race due to pressure from then-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The verbal clash between the two prominent figures reflects ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, with Wike's comments underscoring his frustration with what he perceives as Odili's opportunistic political maneuvering.
Source: Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister (Public Communications and New Media), 29/12/24.
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