Dons Eze
WIKE CANNOT SURVIVE WHERE THERE Is PEACE – ODILI S EX-COMMISSIONER ERIC BRIGGS
A former Commissioner for Works and later Water Resources during Peter Odili’s administration in Rivers State, David Briggs, has accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of thriving in conflict and creating crises to maintain political relevance.
Briggs, who now serves as the Chairman of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board, made the allegations while addressing journalists on Saturday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
He dismissed Wike’s recent claims of reviving Odili’s political career, crediting the former governor with Wike’s rise in politics.
Briggs asserted that Wike’s second tenure as Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area was made possible by Odili’s intervention.
He explained that Odili had reinstated Wike’s name on the nomination list, paving the way for his political advancement.
“The public should disregard Wike’s comments about Dr. Odili,” Briggs said, describing Wike as a person who “cannot and will not survive where there is peace.”
Briggs accused Wike of deliberately inciting crises across Rivers State to maintain his influence, citing the recent lull in political tensions after a court ruling restored federal allocations to the state government.
“Since the court judgement concerning the release of federal allocation to the state government, Rivers State has been enjoying peace. Wike, however, created problems so that he will remain the beneficiary,” Briggs alleged.
He also claimed Wike was behind ongoing political tensions in several local government areas to maintain control.
Briggs further recalled how Wike’s political success, including his governorship bid, was facilitated by Odili and former First Lady Patience Jonathan.
He referenced a viral video showing Wike being introduced to Odili by Patience Jonathan for political endorsement.
“Wike’s comments are insulting to Odili and the people of Rivers State. Dr. Odili played a significant role in building the state’s political structure and in Wike’s political rise,” Briggs said.
Briggs expressed disappointment that President Bola Tinubu had not called Wike to order, warning that Rivers people would no longer tolerate Wike’s alleged excesses.
“He should apologize to the people of Rivers State for his actions, or he risks facing further revelations about his conduct,” Briggs warned.
