A group of young people from the Ijaw Young Professionals Association has advised Governor Siminalayi Fubara to take the lead in resolving the political impasse between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
At a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Sunday, the group stated that despite former Governor Wike’s actions, Governor Fubara and the Ijaw people of Rivers State owe him gratitude for his significant role in the emergence of an Ijaw governor in the state.
Its president, Abiye Achepeka, emphasized that Wike, now serving as the minister of the FCT, could have chosen his successor from another ethnic group. He dismissed claims that Wike is anti-Ijaw, pointing out that Wike selected an Ijaw deputy governor for eight years and has consistently shown support for the Ijaw people.
“We want to state categorically that the Federal Capital Territory Minister is not an enemy of the Ijaws as he has been portrayed. He has always shown love towards the Ijaw people during and after his tenure as Rivers State governor,” Achepeka said.
“Additionally, as Governor of Rivers State, Wike chose his deputy from Ijaw extraction, appointed Ijaw individuals to key positions, and selected the current Rivers governor, His Excellency, Sir Sim Fubara, as his successor. This demonstrates his commitment to the Ijaw people and balanced leadership.”
Achepeka also highlighted Wike’s continued support for Ijaw people in his current role, citing appointments such as Boma Iyaye as the Executive Director of Finance and Administration at NDDC, Alabo George-Kelly as the Executive Secretary of the Border Communities Development Agency, and Ambassador Maureen Tamuno as the Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company Limited.
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“Even as the minister of FCT Abuja, the former governor has made significant nominations and appointments for Ijaws, showing his democratic and humane leadership style,” Achepeka said.
He added that while Governor Fubara’s economic blueprint is promising, its success depends on achieving complete peace in the state.
“We remind the Governor of Rivers State that his economic recovery plan can only attract potential investors if there is peace. Therefore, we urge him to pursue peace and unity, as this is the only way Rivers State can experience rapid and stable development,” Achepeka concluded.
