Tensions have escalated again in Rivers State as former local government chairmen loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of orchestrating a protest aimed at the minister’s residence.
The charges come amid a broader national wave of hunger protests, which have recently targeted Wike’s home in Port Harcourt.
On August 6, 2024, demonstrators associated with the hunger protests converged on Nyesom Wike’s sprawling mansion on Ada George Road, creating a significant disruption and laying siege to the property.
The #EndBadGovernance protests emerged from widespread discontent over economic conditions and government policies.
With thousands taking to the streets, demonstrators are demanding urgent government intervention to address the soaring cost of living and other socio-economic issues.
Several violent incidents, including deaths and looting, have marred the protests, intensifying the tense situation and prompting calls for an end to the protests.
In a statement made on August 7, 2024, the former local government chairmen, speaking through the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGN), Rivers State chapter, accused Governor Fubara of being behind the orchestrated siege.
Chidi Lloyd, a former Chairman of Emuoha Local Government Area, openly criticized the governor, alleging that Fubara was responsible for directing the protesters to Wike’s residence.
Lloyd stated, “We are aware that Governor Fubara directed the protesters to go to the residence of the minister. This is a clear attempt to target and destabilize the former governor and current minister.
“We will also mobilize our supporters to visit Forces Avenue, where Fubara is building on a 32-plot land. Enough is enough. Fubara does not have the monopoly of violence.”
The unrest has seen various demonstrators targeting prominent figures and institutions they hold responsible for the nation’s current economic predicament.
Wike’s mansion, a symbol of his influence and affluence, became a focal point for those expressing frustration over the economic situation.
The accusations against Governor Fubara, however, have intensified the political drama in Rivers State. The former chairmen argue that Fubara’s actions are not merely a response to the protests but part of a deliberate strategy to discredit and attack his political opponents.
“All they have achieved is a mountain of looted funds from Rivers State,” Lloyd charged.
“Fubara wants to incite ethnic bigotry here. If what happened at Ada George repeats itself, Fubara will not be able to govern the state.”
The former chairmen also called for greater transparency from Governor Fubara regarding the state’s financial management.
Lloyd demanded answers from the governor on the handling of substantial state funds, stating,
“The protesters should gather at the government house and ask him what he has done with the N238 billion he collected between May and June.”
As of now, Governor Fubara has not publicly responded to the accusations made by the former local government chairmen.
