Chief Edwin Clark, a prominent leader of the Ijaw nation, has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to arrest the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Clark’s appeal follows Wike’s controversial remarks threatening to destabilize states governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
At a press conference in Abuja, Clark expressed his concern over Wike’s statements made during a Port Harcourt event on August 31.
The remarks were directed at the PDP Governors’ Forum, warning them to stay out of his ongoing dispute with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, was displeased with the PDP governors for supporting Fubara’s leadership in the state. He threatened to create unrest in PDP-controlled states if they interfered.
Clark condemned Wike’s comments, calling them “flagrant disrespect to President Bola Tinubu, and a threat to public peace.” According to Clark, Wike’s behavior violates several laws and constitutes a breach of the Nigerian Constitution.
He urged the police to take action, stating, “Wike has breached a number of laws, public laws, and so on. He has committed crimes, and for him to say that he will burn states belonging to PDP governors and so on, is treasonable.
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“If you could, in the past, arrest Sowore for similar or less instigating threats against public peace and public officials… what are you waiting for to act in the case of Wike?” Clark questioned.
Despite these criticisms, Wike’s supporters under the banner of the Concerned Rivers Citizens for Good Governance, quickly defended him. In a statement signed by several prominent figures, including Chief Princewill Amadi and Welekwa Nyenwem, the group criticized Clark’s repeated attacks on Wike.
They argued that Clark’s outbursts were part of a deliberate effort to tarnish Wike’s reputation and undermine his influence.
“The incessant vituperations by Chief Edwin Clark… are very troubling and unbecoming of an elder statesman,” the group said. They also highlighted Wike’s contributions to the election of Siminalayi Fubara as governor, an achievement they believe Clark once supported.
Amid the controversy, South-South elders and chiefs have expressed concern over the escalating political tension in Rivers State. They urged Wike to step back and allow Governor Fubara to govern without interference.
Dr. Omubo Harry, chairman of the South-South Chiefs, Elders, and Opinion Leaders Association of Nigeria, appealed for peace, stating, “May I also humbly appeal to those of you who have served for eight years, your tenure is over.
“Let us give the young man to bring in his own ideas. What God has ordained, let no man put any asunder,” he declared.
