Ethnic youth leaders have expressed concerns that Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is exacerbating political tensions in Rivers State, which could worsen the economic challenges faced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The youth leaders argue that Wike’s actions are designed to destabilize the state and undermine Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration, ultimately threatening national stability.
In a statement signed by Kabiru Yusuf, the youth leaders allege that Wike’s support for President Tinubu was primarily aimed at thwarting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who defeated Wike in the 2022 presidential primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). They contend that Wike’s true objective is to create chaos in Rivers State, a key contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas output.
The youth leaders highlight the significant economic role of Rivers State, noting that it produces more than 40% of Nigeria’s crude oil and gas resources, which are crucial to the national economy. The state’s political instability, they warn, could disrupt oil production, leading to severe economic repercussions.
“The 2024 budget estimates that the oil sector will contribute 42% to government revenue. If Rivers State, with its significant oil deposits and multinational oil companies, is plunged into political crisis, it could trigger an economic disaster for the nation,” the statement reads. “President Tinubu could face an unprecedented economic crisis, worse than the current situation, if the political turmoil in Rivers State is not addressed.”
The youth leaders accuse Wike of instigating the impeachment of Governor Fubara and making inflammatory comments to provoke unrest. They argue that Wike’s actions are aimed at creating a state of anarchy, which would divert scarce resources to quell the crisis and rebuild damaged infrastructure.
“Wike’s primary focus since leaving office has been to ensure Rivers State remains in political turmoil. His actions, including inciting comments and supporting former loyalists in the State House of Assembly, are intended to provoke the state government and citizens, leading to a breakdown of law and order,” the statement concludes. “Such unrest could severely undermine democracy and destabilize the entire country.”
