A group of Nigerians protesting in the streets against the ongoing Rivers crisis. Demonstrators call for peace and justice, expressing their concerns about the impact of the crisis on their community. The scene captures the urgency and determination of the protesters as they rally for change amidst a tense atmosphere.

Rivers crisis seems unceasing. It sparks every other day. Even after the local government elections, trouble still escalates. 

Nyesom Wike’s former aide has called for his removal from the federal cabinet. Chijioke Ihunwo previously served as a special adviser to Wike during his time as Governor of Rivers State. However, he is now the elected chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State.

In an interview on Arise TV on Tuesday, Ihunwo urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove Wike from his position as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He firmly believes Wike does not deserve to be part of the presidential cabinet.

Ihunwo accused Wike of disrupting Rivers State elections. Moreover, he stated that Wike is “threatening democracy in Nigeria.” This statement comes amidst ongoing violence in Rivers State. The unrest erupted after the recent local government elections, resulting in the burning of three council secretariats.

Stoking fire in Rivers crisis

Ihunwo emphasized that there is no need to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. In fact, he claimed, “Rivers State is very peaceful.” Instead, he called on the President to rein in Wike. He argued, “Wike is threatening democracy under the administration of Mr. President. Wike is not God; he is a human being.”

Furthermore, Ihunwo expressed that Wike cannot control Rivers State. He stated, “Rivers State is too big for him to hold.” In light of this, he appealed to the President to address Wike’s actions or sack him immediately. He remarked that Wike does not deserve to be in the cabinet, especially compared to other ministers who do not cause problems.

Ihunwo said violence broke out after the swearing-in of newly elected officials. “We went out to inspect the offices and saw the level of damage. We heard shooting across the road. Hoodlums attempted to invade the council and set it on fire,” he explained.

Despite crisis, Ihunwo still believes in local governance

Despite the unrest, Ihunwo expressed confidence in local governance. He asserted, “Nobody can destroy our local government. The local government has existed long before the minister of FCT came in.” Additionally, he criticized Wike for allegedly sponsoring violence in the area.

Ihunwo warned that Wike’s actions threaten democracy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nevertheless, he reassured the public, saying, “We’re not scared. I am not talking as a youth leader; I’m now the Chairman of Council. We preach peace and tell our people to remain calm about the crisis in our state.”

He further advised young people being used to cause chaos, urging them to step back. “What goes around comes around,” he stated. Ihunwo reflected on Wike’s past actions against Rotimi Amaechi and asserted that Rivers people are now standing against Wike.

By Usoro I. Usoro, PhD

Dr Usoro I. Usoro, PhD is an accomplished journalist with over 30 years of experience in the media industry. Thirteen of those years, he spent primarily focusing on Health Reporting and Technology, covering critical issues and public policies. Dr. Usoro has held senior editorial positions at renowned Nigerian newspapers, including Sunday Times, Post Express, and Saturday Sun newspapers, where he influenced editorial direction and led teams to produce impactful health-related content. His deep understanding of healthcare journalism, coupled with his extensive writing experience, makes him a trusted voice in the field.

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