The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reconciliation efforts initiated by former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, stating that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has yet to seek forgiveness or acknowledge any wrongdoing.
In a statement issued by Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, the minister emphasized that reconciliation cannot occur in the absence of remorse or a genuine request for pardon. “Forgiveness begins when someone acknowledges their offence and seeks it. Governor Fubara has done neither,” Olayinka noted.
Tompolo had earlier called for Wike to let go of his anger and make peace with Fubara in the interest of stability and unity in Rivers State. “Wike is angry, but he needs to calm down. We will dialogue, resolve all lingering issues, and Fubara will return to his seat,” Tompolo had said.
However, Wike’s camp responded with cautious rejection. “Even assuming there’s been an offence, has Fubara asked for forgiveness? The person who believes they have done no wrong won’t seek reconciliation,” Olayinka stressed.
Clarifying further, the statement noted that Wike’s concerns were not rooted in personal grievances but in principles of governance and loyalty. “The minister only insists that Fubara should lead in accordance with the rule of law and not abandon those who stood by him during his rise to power. That is not too much to ask,” Olayinka said.
He added that the real issue lies with Fubara, who he claims has turned against the very person who once championed his political success. “Throughout the period Wike supported Fubara, he was never seen as a bad person. So, when did that change?” he queried.
Concluding with a proverb, Olayinka stated, “You can ask a doctor to prescribe medicine, but if the patient refuses to take it, what’s the point?”
The political rift between the once-close allies continues to deepen, with Wike drawing a firm line—no apology, no truce.
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