“My relationship with Odili is finished” ~ Wike

During various public events in the past, Nyesom Wike had referred to Peter Odili, a former Governor of Rivers State, as his political mentor and leader. However, Wike, who is currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), recently disclosed that his relationship with Odili has soured due to “political differences.”

In a conversation with journalists in Abuja, Wike explained that he and Odili no longer have a harmonious political relationship. He clarified that despite the discord, he still regards Odili as a father figure.

Wike, who governed Rivers State from May 2015 to May 2023 before assuming his ministerial position, did not elaborate on the specific reasons for the strained relationship with Odili. However, it is speculated that the disagreement may be linked to the ongoing political turmoil in the state, particularly involving the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who is facing impeachment threats.

Furthermore, Wike criticized certain leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, labeling them as “political buccaneers” for expressing support for Fubara. He singled out individuals such as Abiye Sekibo, Uche Secondus, Celestine Omehia, and Austin Opara, dismissing them as irrelevant and no longer worthbeing considered “elder statesmen”.

Wike asserted that Secondus, in particular, was no longer a member of the PDP following his suspension, which was upheld by the court. He emphasized that these individuals had been expelled from the party under his leadership.