Nyesom Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has not approached him to seek forgiveness, despite public calls for reconciliation from prominent figures, including ex-militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

Wike, speaking through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, emphasised that forgiveness can only come after a person acknowledges wrongdoing and seeks pardon. This followed Tompolo’s recent appeal urging the minister to temper his anger and embrace peace for the greater good of Rivers State.

In a statement, Tompolo had said, “Wike is angry, but he has to bring his temper down for the good of all. We will have a dialogue and resolve all lingering issues, and again, Fubara will return to his seat.”

Reacting, Olayinka said, “It is when somebody has offended you personally that you begin to talk about forgiveness. Has Fubara admitted to any wrongdoing or sought forgiveness from the minister? No, he hasn’t.”

Olayinka further clarified that Wike has not accused Fubara of personal wrongdoing. Rather, he has consistently demanded that the governor uphold democratic principles and honour those who supported his rise to power.

“The minister only said Fubara should not throw away those who risked everything to help him become governor. That’s a call for good governance, not a personal grudge,” he added.

Wike’s camp also questioned the governor’s changed stance, recalling his former loyalty. “At what point did Wike become a bad person to Fubara? These are the questions the governor should ask himself,” Olayinka noted.

He concluded with a metaphor: “You’re begging a doctor to give medicine but not begging the patient to take it. What happens?”