KEY POINTS

• Former Governor Ada George accuses Wike of instigating Rivers crisis after failed political agenda.
• Controversial LG appointments spark constitutional concerns, prompting legal challenges.
• Elders forum seeks peaceful resolution but prepares for court battles over democratic norms.

Former Rivers State Governor Ada George has leveled serious allegations against FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, claiming he masterminded the current political turmoil in Rivers State.

The elder statesman, who chairs the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, made the explosive claims during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, accusing Wike of orchestrating the controversial appointment of sole administrators across all 23 local government areas.

“The FCT Minister is the architect of all these things,” George declared. “He could set ablaze states where governors didn’t share his views, and that’s exactly what he’s trying to do in Rivers.”

The former governor revealed Wike had secretly visited military officials in Rivers just days before the controversial local government appointments were announced.

Constitutional crisis looms as elders vow legal resistance

George strongly condemned the appointments as “unconstitutional and an assault on democratic governance,” warning that Rivers people would resist through all lawful means.

The forum has already initiated court cases challenging the political developments and plans further legal action. “We will go to court where necessary. We have cases in court at the moment, and we will continue,” George affirmed.

Channelstv reports that the crisis stems from the ongoing power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike’s political camp.

Despite attempts at mediation, including written appeals to both parties that went unanswered, tensions continue escalating.

Political analysts warn the imposition of sole administrators could destabilize Nigeria’s oil-rich state, which produces about 40% of the nation’s crude output.

Quoting Nigeria’s first president, George appealed for calm: “Surulere, Surulere” – be patient, be silent. However, he emphasized the elders’ determination to protect Rivers’ democratic institutions.

The forum maintains hope for peaceful resolution but prepares for prolonged legal battles as constitutional experts debate the legality of the local government appointments.