The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to a call by former Niger Delta militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, urging him to forgive the embattled and suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.
Wike, speaking through his media aide, Lere Olayinka, said forgiveness could only be considered if the person in question acknowledges wrongdoing and seeks reconciliation—something he claims Fubara has yet to do.
“You don’t talk about forgiveness when the person who allegedly offended you hasn’t even come forward to ask for it,” Olayinka stated on behalf of the minister.
In a recent statement on the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, Tompolo called for unity and restraint, encouraging Wike to temper his anger and work towards peace.
“And just like I will not accept rebellion from my son, I will also not cause more problems.
“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,” Tompolo said.
Reacting, Olayinka questioned the premise of the appeal. “Let’s assume Fubara has offended the minister — has he sought forgiveness? The person who has wronged you must first admit it to himself and come forward to reconcile. That has not happened.”
He further clarified that Wike has not accused Fubara of any personal offence, but rather of political betrayal and deviation from governance principles.
“The minister has never said Fubara offended him personally. He only urged him to govern in line with the rule of law and not to abandon those who risked their lives and resources to make him governor. That’s not too much to ask,“ Olayinka added.
Olayinka also questioned Fubara’s change in attitude towards Wike, pointing out that the governor once worked closely and loyally with him.
“At what point did Wike become the enemy? He needs to do some soul-searching. When Wike was taking bullets for him, he wasn’t a bad person. So, what changed?” he asked.
