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Leadership Conflict in Rivers State: Edwin Clark's Call for Intervention in Wike’s Political Maneuvering
Edwin Clark, the eminent leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has raised significant concerns regarding the actions of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Clark accuses Wike of instigating political discord against Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State, describing his conduct as reckless and detrimental to the region's stability.
In a strongly worded letter dated May 20, 2024, addressed to the chairmen of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), Clark delineates his concerns. He implores the party leaders to intervene and curb Wike’s actions, which he likens to "dancing naked in the open market"—a metaphor for causing public chaos and disgrace within Rivers State's political landscape.
Clark's letter explicitly accuses Wike of exercising undue influence over both the PDP and APC within Rivers State. He warns that Wike’s dual involvement in both major political parties is leading to unnecessary turmoil and could have severe repercussions for the state’s governance. Rivers State is pivotal to Nigeria's economy, given its vast oil reserves and strategic infrastructure such as the Onne deep seaport and the presence of International Oil Companies (IOCs). Stability in this region is therefore of national interest.
In his admonishment, Clark states, "As a patriotic old statesman, I strongly believe that I should address this letter to you to call to order FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, because he is dancing naked in the open market in the politics of madness in Rivers State with one leg each in the two parties." This vivid imagery underscores the seriousness of the situation and Clark's belief that immediate action is necessary.
Clark’s letter further appeals to the leadership of both political parties to extricate themselves from the ongoing political strife in Rivers State. He cautions that the current trajectory threatens to destabilize one of Nigeria's most crucial states. "I strongly advise both of you to withdraw from the madness of politics of Rivers State to avoid the dangerous crisis facing Rivers State, one of the most important states producing the resources used to sustain the economy of this country," he wrote.
Clark's plea extends beyond the parties involved; he also questions the Federal Government’s passivity. He calls for a robust response to safeguard democratic principles and ensure that governance in Rivers State is not compromised by individual ambitions. The central message is clear: the political chaos orchestrated by Wike, if left unchecked, could undermine the economic and social fabric of the state, with far-reaching consequences for the entire nation.
In conclusion, Edwin Clark's letter is a clarion call for immediate intervention to halt the disruptive activities of Nyesom Wike in Rivers State. By drawing attention to Wike’s divisive tactics and the potential risks to national stability, Clark seeks to mobilize political and governmental leaders to act decisively. His message emphasizes the need for unity, responsible governance, and the preservation of democratic order in a region that is vital to Nigeria's economic well-being.
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