Tensions in Rivers State deepened on Friday as youths from across the South-South region stepped up demands for the removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, whom they accused of fuelling the protracted political crisis in the state.
The youths, speaking under the banner of the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI), insisted that peace and stability would only return to Rivers State if President Bola Tinubu removes Wike from his ministerial position. They described his continued presence in the federal cabinet as a major stumbling block to harmony, governance and development in the state.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, the National President of SSYI, Comrade Imeabe Saviour Oscar, argued that the political turmoil in Rivers State was not accidental but deliberately engineered to divert attention from governance and economic progress.
He expressed concern that while many states are focused on industrial growth, job creation and strengthening their economies, Rivers State remains trapped in what he described as a needless political battle.
“As young people of Rivers State and the wider South-South, we are deeply worried by what is happening,” Oscar said. “At a time when other states are thinking about industrialisation and economic advancement, Rivers State is being dragged into an avoidable political crisis, allegedly orchestrated by the FCT Minister.”
The group called on President Tinubu to act decisively by relieving Wike of his post, maintaining that such a step would instantly calm political tensions. They warned that keeping the former Rivers governor in office could be seen as indirect endorsement of the ongoing unrest.
According to Oscar, removing Wike would send a strong message that the federal government is committed to peace in Rivers State. He added that continued silence could fuel the belief that the crisis is being tolerated or encouraged from the centre.
The youths also alleged that dissent was stifled during Wike’s tenure as governor, claiming that senior government officials rarely challenged his authority or policies. They further accused his administration of failing to prioritise youth empowerment, arguing that job creation, skills development and meaningful inclusion of young people were largely neglected.
Commenting on the impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, the group dismissed allegations of financial wrongdoing, describing them as politically driven and aimed at undermining the current administration.
They accused the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, of acting in line with external political interests to destabilise the state and disrupt governance.
The youths also issued a warning to the Presidency, cautioning that continued backing of Wike could affect President Tinubu’s electoral prospects in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We want Nyesom Wike to know that youths are unhappy,” Oscar said. “Not just in Rivers State, but across the entire South-South region.”