Elders in Rivers State, under the banner of the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, have called on Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to issue an unreserved apology for his recent derogatory comments against former Governor Peter Odili.
The elders described Dr. Odili as a respected statesman and founder of PAMO University of Medical Sciences.
The demand was made in a strongly worded statement signed by notable leaders, including former Governor Celestine Omehia, Prince Uche Secondus, former Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru, Senator Lee Maeba, and Dr. Abiye Sekibo, among others.
The elders expressed deep dismay over Wike’s comments, labeling them as disrespectful and contrary to the longstanding Rivers State traditions of mutual respect and deference to elders. The group criticized Wike for accusing Dr. Odili of “chickening out” of a presidential race, clarifying that Odili had stepped aside in 2006 at the directive of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo for the sake of party unity.
The statement read:
“Dr. Peter Odili did not ‘chicken out.’ He demonstrated loyalty and statesmanship by stepping down for the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to ensure North-South balance within the PDP. Odili acted with dignity, supporting his party without undermining its structure. This is a quality alien to Nyesom Wike.”
The elders further emphasized Dr. Odili’s legacy as a medical professional, a two-term governor, and a national statesman, citing his achievements, including founding Nigeria’s first private medical university. They declared that such a man does not require validation from anyone.
The group also condemned Wike’s history of disrespect towards other dignitaries, including former Governor Omehia, Prince Secondus, and traditional rulers. They stressed that Wike, as a former governor and minister, should act as a role model and uphold decorum in public discourse.
“Elders are the custodians of our heritage and values. Disrespecting them is an affront to the entire community. Wike’s consistent tendency to insult respected figures is unbecoming of someone who has held high public office,” the statement continued.
The elders called on Wike to reflect on his behavior and offer an apology, urging him to embrace the values of respect, humility, and unity, which have long been cherished in Rivers State.
