Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has come under fresh criticism over what Ijaw leaders describe as a renewed campaign of political hostility against Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, raising concerns over peace and democratic stability in the state.

The Eastern Zone of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) made the allegation in a joint press statement issued on Thursday, calling on the former Rivers governor to immediately de-escalate tensions and refrain from actions capable of undermining public order.

The groups said Wike’s recent conduct contradicts the peace accord brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on June 26, 2025, which was aimed at resolving the protracted political rift between him and Governor Fubara.

According to the statement, rather than allowing the agreement to foster reconciliation, the minister has allegedly engaged in public provocations, political intimidation, and actions that have reignited uncertainty in Rivers State’s political environment.

The INC and IYC accused Wike of attempting to position himself as the ultimate political authority in the state by allegedly dictating who should contest future elections, a move they said runs contrary to democratic principles and the will of the electorate.

They also expressed concern over reported demands allegedly made by the minister for the removal of key state officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and the Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, describing such moves as an intrusion into the constitutional powers of the governor.

The Ijaw groups further rejected claims by a group identified as the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO), insisting that the INC and IYC remain the only recognised bodies authorised to speak for the Ijaw people.

They also faulted what they described as Wike’s public reprimand of two traditional rulers over perceived political interests, warning that traditional institutions must not be subjected to intimidation or partisan control.

Reaffirming their support for Governor Fubara, the groups stated that he has the right, as a Rivers indigene, to contest any future election, including the 2027 governorship race, without coercion or political conditions.

The statement concluded with a call on Wike to halt all actions capable of destabilising Rivers State and urged residents and stakeholders to remain law-abiding and committed to peace as political tensions persist.