Allow Fubara Rule Without Wike’s Interference, Bode George Urges Tinubu

A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bode George, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take action against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to ensure that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, can govern effectively.

In a statement on Monday, George stressed that Tinubu would bear the consequences if he allowed Wike’s influence to go unchecked.

He also cautioned Tinubu against permitting any actions that could undermine democracy during his tenure, highlighting the importance of allowing elected officials to perform their duties without interference.

He said, “Now that the people of Rivers State have boldly asserted their civic and constitutional rights by coming out to vote in the local government election on Saturday, this is the time for the former governor of the state and now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to allow Governor Siminalayi Fubara to govern and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

“This is also the time for President Bola Tinubu to advise Wike, who is one of his ministers, to allow the governor to work.”

His remarks followed the local government elections in Rivers State on Saturday, which took place without the participation of the Nigeria Police Force.

The Action People’s Party won in 22 local government areas, while the Action Alliance secured the remaining seat.

Following the swearing-in of the newly elected council chairpersons for the 23 local government areas, both the state Peoples Democratic Party and factions of the All Progressives Congress rejected the conduct and results of the elections, claiming that no election took place in the state on Saturday.

The PDP faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, characterised the election as a failure and pledged to challenge the results in court.

Credit: Punch