Wike Reignites Odili Feud, Asserts ‘No Candidate I Supported Has Ever Lost an Election’

Former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike criticizes Peter Odili, claiming his support ensures electoral victories. Wike’s bold political assertions continue to spark debates.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has intensified his criticism of former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili and stated that he will not apologize for his comments about the elder statesman.

During a luncheon at his Port Harcourt residence on Friday, Wike clearly expressed his stance to the political associates and stakeholders in attendance.

He made these remarks in response to the Concerned Elders of Rivers State’s demand for an unreserved apology to Odili, after they characterized his previous comments about the founder of PAMO University of Medical Sciences as derogatory.

Addressing the claims that Odili favored his daughter over his nephew for a political appointment, Wike restated his stance.

He said, “They suggested I should apologize for what? There’s no law against their daughter accepting a position—this I agree with. However, as an elder statesman, my point was that you shouldn’t have given your daughter’s appointment priority over your nephew’s opportunity. Did I ever claim there’s a law preventing his daughter from pursuing something?”

“You claimed someone is turning Rivers State into their personal estate, but that’s not true. The person actually doing that is you, Odili, and on top of it all, you’ve appointed yourself as the general overseer.”

“I didn’t say anything wrong, so you can’t blame me for something I didn’t express. They advised Tinubu to be cautious about someone like me. Unlike you (Odili), Tinubu is a different person. If you were reasonable, when Tinubu extended an olive branch as an elder statesman and called upon the people of Rivers State to foster peace, instead of returning home and ignoring his direction completely, it would have been proper for you to report back your efforts in implementing some measures and seek guidance on completing others from Mr. President.”

“When my father makes a mistake, shouldn’t I say, ‘Papa, this isn’t what you mentioned yesterday’? Is that meant to upset him? In 1999, I ran for local government election and have never lost an election since. Additionally, anyone I’ve supported has always won.”

Continuing his statement, Wike remarked: “There is a time for everything. He praises the court now—the same court they previously criticized on national television. When the ruling goes in their favor, suddenly the judiciary is commendable; if not, it’s dismissed as corrupt. I believe there are limits to such behavior and urge everyone to have faith in our judicial system. Justice may move slowly, but it will ultimately prevail.”

Amid the political crisis in the State, he encouraged his supporters to “remain patient,” regardless of whether things go their way or not.

“We must not stoop to their level in undermining the judiciary. The strength of our nation depends on a strong judicial system; if it falters, so does Nigeria’s stability. Outcomes may not always be what we desire or personally benefit from. Resorting to violence is never an option.”

“Remain calm, as something will occur in this state that everyone will become aware of. The ongoing movement isn’t affiliated with any party; it’s a movement you’ll soon witness. Disregard their assertions.”

At the event, Wike also urged Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to stay loyal to those who backed his ascent to power.

“No one can achieve anything without the support of others,” Wike said, as he reflected on his own political challenges.

In the meantime, the Concerned Elders of Rivers State, under the leadership of notable personalities such as former Governor Celestine Omehia and Prince Uche Secondus, released a sharply critical statement denouncing Wike’s comments about Odili.

The elders praised Odili for preserving his legacy by adhering to a 2006 directive from then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, which asked him to withdraw from the presidential race in order to maintain party unity. “This demonstrates statesmanship and teamwork that is unfamiliar to Nyesom Wike,” they commented.

They also refuted Wike’s allegations that the Odili family unfairly profited from government resources, justifying the appointments of Justice Mary Odili and Dr. Adaeze Oreh by highlighting their qualifications and accomplishments.

In their statement, the elders called on Wike to honor the traditions of respect for elders and unity within Rivers State. They emphasized that “as a former governor and national statesman, Wike should serve as a role model,” criticizing his “ongoing disrespect” toward dignitaries, traditional leaders, and clergy members.

The group additionally claimed that the conflict between Wike and Odili started because Wike ignored Odili’s advice against attempting to impeach the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara. They stressed that Odili’s efforts were focused on maintaining political stability in Rivers State.

While advocating for dialogue to address grievances, the elders emphasized that respect for their status should remain inviolable in the state’s political discussions.