Leadnaija
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that sustainable peace in Rivers State can only be achieved through inclusive and sincere dialogue among all key stakeholders.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt on Friday to mark the 70th birthday of former federal lawmaker Ken Chikere, Wike emphasized that blackmail, media attacks, or public protests cannot restore peace.
“One month after Mr President, in his wisdom, declared a state of emergency to save Rivers State from anarchy, I challenge any Rivers so-called elder, even the traditional rulers, to state the attempt they made to bring total peace in the State,” the minister said.
Wike criticized individuals who, he claimed, benefit from unrest, warning that such actors are obstacles to genuine reconciliation. He called for humility and collaboration among political and community leaders, noting that peace efforts must include members of both the State and National Assemblies, as well as leaders of all political parties.
“There are critical stakeholders that must be involved in the process of this peacemaking. Nobody will be excluded. If any group is excluded, it means there is no total peace,” he added.
The FCT Minister also decried the use of women in public protests and emphasized the need for respect and dignity in the pursuit of peace.
His remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State, which recently prompted the Presidency to intervene in efforts to prevent further instability.
