The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has firmly responded to the recent intervention by ex-Niger Delta militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo), who called on him to forgive suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, amid the state’s ongoing political crisis.
Wike, through his spokesperson Lere Olayinka, made it clear that forgiveness is not a one-sided affair, and that the foundations of reconciliation must be laid by those who seek it.
“You don’t talk about forgiveness when the person who allegedly offended you hasn’t even come forward to ask for it,” Olayinka stated.
“There’s a process to reconciliation, and it starts with accountability.”
In his appeal, Tompolo had urged Wike to “bring his temper down” for the sake of peace, drawing an analogy between political rebellion and familial disobedience.
However, Wike’s camp appears unmoved by what they consider a simplistic framing of a far more complex political betrayal.
Olayinka questioned the premise of Tompolo’s intervention, suggesting that it lacked balance and a clear understanding of the issues at stake.
“Let’s even assume Fubara offended the minister, has he acknowledged that offence? Has he made any genuine effort to reconcile? None of that has happened,” he stated.
He was also quick to clarify that Wike’s concerns are not rooted in personal grievances but in political principles and governance ethics. “Wike has never accused Fubara of personal wrongdoing.
His disappointment stems from a clear deviation from political loyalty and governance ideals. A man cannot turn his back on those who sacrificed for his rise and expect applause.”
Referring to the political history between Wike and Fubara, Olayinka pointedly asked: “At what point did Wike become the enemy? When he stood by Fubara, took political risks, and shielded him from attacks, he was a hero. What has changed, aside from power?”
The minister’s camp hinted that public calls for peace, while noble in intent, must be grounded in truth and justice.
Without that, they risk legitimizing disloyalty under the guise of unity.
While Tompolo’s intervention may have been well-meaning, Wike’s response is a reminder that political reconciliation demands more than sentiment, it requires sincerity, reflection, and above all, accountability.
Credit: Politics Nigeria except headline
