Wike, Okocha, Others Snub Rivers Inquiry Panel on LG Poll Violence

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry established by the Rivers State Government to investigate the violence, arson, and destruction of property during recent local government elections concluded its proceedings on Tuesday, November 19, without the participation of key invitees. Among those who ignored the panel’s summons were Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, and Chief Tony Okocha, factional Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Governor Siminialayi Fubara had inaugurated the seven-member panel in early October, granting it a one-month mandate to examine the circumstances surrounding the violence, including the burning of local government secretariats. The panel, chaired by Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, had extended invitations to Wike and others through courier services and newspaper advertisements.

Justice Minakiri confirmed that the commission had set aside November 19 specifically for Wike to address unresolved issues. However, neither Wike nor any of the other invitees, including Okocha, appeared or sent legal representation.

“Today’s sitting was reserved for the Minister to clarify some grey areas. We had waited, hoping he would attend. Unfortunately, there is no one here,” Justice Minakiri said. She added that the panel’s sessions would not continue unless directed otherwise by Governor Fubara, in line with the commission’s operational mandate.

The absence of Wike and others was marked by an empty hearing hall, underscoring the lack of compliance with the commission’s invitations. “We made publications inviting those we needed to hear from, including His Excellency (Nyesom Wike), but nobody came forward,” the panel chairperson lamented.

Despite these challenges, Justice Minakiri confirmed that the commission would proceed with submitting its final report. “We appreciate everyone who supported our work by attending the hearings. Your presence made our task easier. We hope that our findings will ultimately benefit the people of Rivers State,” she concluded.

The commission’s findings are expected to shed light on the causes of the election violence, although the non-cooperation of key figures could hinder its impact.