Wike to Ateke Tom: Stay Out of Rivers Politics

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has advised the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom and traditional ruler of the area, Ateke Tom, to refrain from participating in political activities in Rivers State.

Wike gave the advice on Saturday during a visit to the monarch’s palace in Okrika Local Government Area as part of what he described as a thank-you visit to communities that have supported him politically.

According to the minister, political activities would soon begin in the state, and it was important for traditional rulers to remain neutral and focus on maintaining peace in their domains. He said decisions had already been taken on how to address key political issues in Rivers State.

Wike said his visit to the palace was based on a personal relationship with the monarch and urged him to continue his role as a unifying figure. He stressed that while the king might have personal political preferences, he should not be seen as taking part in partisan activities.

He commended Ateke Tom for maintaining peace in Okochiri Kingdom, noting that Okrika experienced relative stability during his time as governor. Wike added that any traditional ruler who fails to keep his community united is unfit for the position.

Addressing residents of Okrika, Wike expressed concern over the current political climate in Rivers State and said he would resist any attempt to sideline him politically. He stated that mistakes made in the past would be corrected and that a clear decision had been taken on the way forward.

The minister said the purpose of his visit was to appreciate the people of Okrika and the wider Ijaw community for their consistent support. He urged them to allow politicians to conduct their activities without dragging traditional institutions into political disputes.

Wike also praised President Bola Tinubu, crediting him with ensuring that local government elections held in the state and describing him as a leader who keeps his commitments. He thanked the people for supporting Tinubu and said the administration had brought unprecedented appointments to Rivers State and Ijaw communities.

He dismissed claims that his relationship with the Ijaw people was strained, saying his only opposition was to individuals who stood against development. He challenged critics to confront him directly rather than using ethnic or communal narratives.

During the event, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress announced its withdrawal of support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared allegiance to Wike. Chairman of the group, Senator George Sekibo, described the rift between Wike and Fubara as unfortunate but said the Ijaw people remained grateful for Wike’s role in supporting Fubara’s emergence as governor.

Sekibo said the group had resolved to stand with Wike and pledged loyalty to President Tinubu, citing Wike’s contributions to the political advancement of Ijaw people in Rivers State.

Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Akuro Tobin, described Wike as his political benefactor and said the minister had helped many indigenes secure elective and appointive positions. He assured Wike of the continued support of the people of the area.

Also speaking, Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and representative of Okrika Constituency, Linda Stewart, praised Wike’s support for women and wished him success in his political engagements.