Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, has lashed out at former Rivers State Governor Dr. Peter Odili, asserting that “an elder statesman should not be a trader and a sycophant at all times.”
Speaking during a Special Thanksgiving Service held by Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule at the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) in Port Harcourt, Wike expressed disappointment that Odili, who is expected to embody the qualities of an elder statesman, has diminished himself through sycophancy and trading.
In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant for Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike questioned Odili’s continued political maneuvering: “Must you be a trader all the time? As governor for eight years, what more do you seek?”
Referring to Odili’s recent comments regarding the current governor’s efforts to prevent the misuse of power in Rivers State, Wike challenged, “Between him and myself, who has truly turned Rivers State into a personal estate?”
He pointed out that Odili’s family members hold various significant positions, including his wife as Chairman of the Governing Council and his daughters in roles such as commissioner and judge.
Wike lamented that Odili, in a bid for political favor, seems to have forgotten past praises he offered Wike during his own tenure as governor, recalling that Odili once lauded Wike for achieving more than all previous governors combined.
He stated on the irony of Odili’s current statements, given the lack of comparable achievements during Odili’s own eight years in office.
“A governor has yet to complete one year in office, and Odili claims he has surpassed the achievements of all past governors. What sort of elder statesman speaks like that?” he asked.
Wike also reflected on the support he extended to Odili during his political rise, recalling how he facilitated the building of a residence for him and sponsored student programs at PAMO University. “He was proud to show off what I had done for him, praising me to high heaven,” he said.
The minister criticised Odili for aligning with the current governor after previously opposing him. “How can one trust advice from someone who constantly contradicts himself?” he questioned.
He also addressed issues within the state government’s, mentioning that while they have distanced themselves from the administration, he remains focused on his role in Abuja.
Wike dismissed Odili’s recent comments as hypocritical and called into question his standing as a respected elder statesman.
