Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, says genuine reconciliation involving all critical stakeholders is the only path to lasting peace in Rivers State, dismissing blackmail and protests as ineffective.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service for former federal lawmaker Ken Chikere’s 70th birthday in Port Harcourt, Wike said, “No amount of going to television to abuse anybody will bring peace. Those who thrive in crisis are always happy when there is crisis.”
Wike, a former governor of the state, defended the declaration of emergency rule by the President, claiming it averted greater chaos. He challenged traditional leaders and elders, accusing them of making no sincere efforts to mediate the conflict.
“I challenge any Rivers so-called elder, even the traditional rulers, to state the attempt they made to bring total peace in the State,” he said.
Criticizing recent protests, including those involving women demonstrating naked, Wike said such acts won’t restore suspended leaders. “There is no need to embarrass our women to be naked outside. No amount of such blackmail can bring peace.”
He emphasized the need for inclusivity in peace talks: “Members of the State Assembly and the National Assembly must be involved. The two political parties must be involved, other leaders must be involved. If any group is excluded, it means there is no total peace.”
Wike concluded that humility and sincerity, not political interest, must drive the reconciliation process. “What can bring peace is for you to humble yourself and say, for the interest of the state, I want everybody to work together.”
