A group of respected elders from Rivers State, under the banner of the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, has called for a public apology from the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, following his recent derogatory remarks about former Governor Peter Odili. The group, which includes prominent figures like former Governor Celestine Omehia, Prince Uche Secondus, ex-Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru, and former Deputy Speaker Austin Opara, expressed their deep dissatisfaction with Wike’s comments.
In a strongly worded statement, the elders condemned Wike’s insults aimed at Dr. Odili, a revered elder statesman, medical professional, and founder of PAMO University of Medical Sciences. The remarks, made during a church event in Ororgwe, were deemed not only disrespectful but contrary to the traditional values of mutual respect that Rivers State upholds.
According to the statement, Wike’s comment that Dr. Odili “chickened out” of the 2007 presidential race was misinformed and offensive. The elders clarified that Dr. Odili stepped down from the race at the request of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo to ensure party unity and regional balance. They argued that Wike’s accusation implied that he himself would disregard the directive of President Bola Tinubu, which was a stark contrast to Dr. Odili’s loyalty to party decisions.
The statement further elaborated on Dr. Odili’s character, commending his statesmanship and unwavering commitment to the stability of the country. The elders praised Odili for his decision to support late President Musa Yar’Adua in the 2007 election, despite being a strong contender himself. His decision to back Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as vice president was also highlighted as an act of selflessness and political maturity.
The elders noted that, as a former governor and national figure, Wike should embody the values of respect, unity, and decorum, especially in his public pronouncements. They reminded him that as a leader, he has a responsibility to uphold the dignity of elders, political figures, and institutions, rather than engage in inflammatory rhetoric.
The statement emphasized that Dr. Odili, at 76 years of age and having left office over 17 years ago, is a highly accomplished professional and statesman. As the founder of Nigeria’s first private medical university, he is beyond the need for political patronage. The elders argued that such a distinguished individual should not be subjected to the type of insults Wike has recently leveled against him.
Additionally, the elders raised concerns over Wike’s broader pattern of disrespect toward other political leaders, including Sir Celestine Omehia, Prince Uche Secondus, and the King of Eberi Omuma, among others. They expressed their disappointment at Wike’s apparent disregard for the values that have shaped Rivers State’s political culture.
In closing, the elders stressed the importance of dialogue and respect in resolving political differences. They firmly stated that the disrespect shown toward elders is a matter that cannot be ignored, as it undermines the community’s values and heritage. They called on Wike to issue an apology to Dr. Odili and all those he has insulted, reminding him of the responsibilities that come with holding high public office.
