Laolu Akande to Wike: “Surrender Rivers, Your Time as Governor Is Over”
By Wisdom Tide
October 15, 2024
Akande Calls for Peace Amid Political Tensions in Rivers State
Former Presidential aide, Laolu Akande, has urged former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, to acknowledge that his time as governor has ended and to step back from the ongoing political turmoil in the state. Speaking during an interview on Inside Sources, a Channels Television program aired on Sunday, Akande highlighted the negative impact of the power struggle between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, on the peace and stability of Rivers State.
Harmful Power Struggle Between Wike and Fubara
Akande criticized the escalating political friction between the two leaders, labeling it as detrimental to both the state's governance and the welfare of its people. He emphasized that the ongoing feud, which has contributed to increasing violence and damage to public property in Rivers State, serves no productive purpose. The clashes, he noted, have sown division and uncertainty, with the former governor, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), continuing to wield influence in state politics.
“Respect the Transition of Power”
During the interview, Akande specifically called on Wike to respect the transition of power, urging him to follow the advice he once gave as governor to others in similar situations. “Wike should surrender and accept that his time as governor is over,” Akande stated. “Rivers needs leadership, not a continued battle of godfathers and godsons.” According to him, Wike’s refusal to step aside is hindering the state's progress and exacerbating tensions that only serve to harm the residents of Rivers.
A Plea for Reconciliation
In addition to his criticism of Wike, Akande appealed to Governor Fubara to take a more reconciliatory approach to leadership. He argued that the ongoing conflict between the two political figures is counterproductive, with neither side benefiting from the prolonged dispute. Instead, he urged both leaders to focus on governance and public service, noting that the people of Rivers State stand to lose the most if the current tensions are not resolved.
Conclusion
Akande’s call for peace and responsible leadership comes at a critical time for Rivers State, where political unrest has led to growing instability. His remarks underscore the need for Wike to relinquish any lingering influence over state affairs, while also encouraging Fubara to embrace dialogue and reconciliation for the sake of the state’s future
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