Former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, issued a stern warning against political betrayal and urged politicians not to undermine the structures that facilitated their ascent to power. Wike, who has been embroiled in a political dispute with his successor and the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, made the remarks during an address at his residence in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Speaking to the traditional ruler of Ogbaland and other chiefs from the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area who came to celebrate his birthday, Wike emphasized the importance of leaving the political ladder intact for others to ascend.
“Don’t pull the ladder that you use in climbing. When you are coming down, the ladder may not be there. And leave the ladder too so that other people can also climb the ladder,” cautioned Wike.
The former governor assured the traditional ruler that he would consider the advice and welcomed peaceful resolutions to the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State. He emphasized the non-ethnic nature of the political discord, refuting claims that it was an ethnic war.
“We didn’t vote based on ethnicity… but for the unity of Rivers,” Wike asserted. He expressed a commitment to promoting peace and disavowed any association with violence.
Wike drew parallels between the political and traditional realms, asserting that just as a traditional ruler must adhere to the rules of the traditional institution, politicians must also abide by certain principles within the political group they emerge from.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been marked by tensions and disputes, with Wike’s warning underscoring the need for adherence to democratic principles and unity within the state.
