The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has publicly criticized some leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State for their endorsement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This comes after prominent Rivers PDP figures, including former PDP National Chairman Uche Secondus, former Minister of Transportation Abiye Sekibo, and others, declared their support for Fubara and President Bola Tinubu.
During a media interaction in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike lambasted the Rivers PDP leaders, labeling them as “political vampires” and “expired politicians” who are unworthy of being called elder statesmen. He asserted that Secondus was no longer a member of the PDP due to his suspension, which was upheld by the court.
Rejecting the characterization of Sekibo, Secondus, Omehia, and Okpara as elder statesmen, Wike emphasized the need for integrity and consistency in earning such a title. He criticized the leaders for their opportunistic alliances and questioned their commitment to serving the interests of their constituents.
Wike expressed bewilderment at the sudden support extended to Governor Fubara by politicians who had previously opposed him during the 2023 elections. He highlighted the inconsistency of their actions and questioned their integrity in rallying behind someone they had once criticized.
Furthermore, Wike pointed out the irony of these politicians’ past criticisms of Governor Fubara and their current endorsement of him. He highlighted their previous skepticism regarding Fubara’s credentials and mocked their sudden change of heart.
The FCT Minister’s remarks underscore the ongoing political dynamics within the PDP in Rivers State and the challenges of maintaining party cohesion amidst divergent interests and ambitions.