The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Stirs Controversy at Wike’s Birthday Lecture and Book Launch
In a political gathering laden with undertones and overt remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered a speech that reverberated across Nigeria’s political landscape. The occasion was a public lecture and book launch organized to celebrate the birthday of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on a bustling Friday. While the event’s primary focus was to honor Wike’s legacy, Akpabio’s comments on the political state of Rivers and his implicit criticisms of Governor Siminialayi Fubara and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) became the evening’s focal point.
The lecture, titled Pragmatic Strides of a Visionary Leader and Contemporary Issues of Society, drew a crowd that could be described as a microcosm of Nigeria’s political elite. Thousands of Wike’s loyalists, friends, and associates from across the country flooded the venue, creating a spectacle that extended beyond the capacity of the event center. The roads surrounding the popular Sani Abacha Road in the GRA neighborhood of Port Harcourt brimmed with people eager to catch a glimpse of the proceedings.
Organized by the NEW Associates—a political movement deriving its name from the initials of Nyesom Ezenwo Wike—the event celebrated Wike’s contributions while also providing a platform for political discourse. Yet, the gathering became a stage for Akpabio’s sharp critiques and reflections on governance, loyalty, and political strategy.
Akpabio’s Subtle Digs at Governor Fubara and the PDP
Akpabio, as the special guest of honor, delivered a speech interwoven with humor and pointed remarks. He began by acknowledging the presence of Martins Amaewhule, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and used the moment to underscore the legislature’s influence in governance. “Every wise governor or president must find a way to hold the leadership of the legislature closely,” he remarked, drawing parallels to his own tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Reflecting on his political strategy, Akpabio shared anecdotes of how he maintained close ties with the Speaker during his governorship. “As a governor, my greatest fear was my House of Assembly,” he said, emphasizing that legislative bodies possess the power to make or break an administration. His comments seemed to serve as advice—or a veiled critique—aimed at Governor Fubara, whose handling of the political crisis in Rivers State has drawn scrutiny.
The Senate President did not shy away from pointing out Fubara’s inability to sway members of the state legislature. With 27 lawmakers reportedly aligned with Wike, Akpabio expressed surprise that Fubara, despite the resources at his disposal, had not managed to “poach” even a single lawmaker. “If I cannot do that, it means there is something wrong with my political philosophy,” he stated.
Condemning Politics of Betrayal
Akpabio’s speech took a philosophical turn as he lamented the prevalence of betrayal and treachery in Nigerian politics. “We must try to stop this politics of betrayal,” he declared, noting that such practices undermine governance and hinder sustainability. He criticized political successors who aim to dismantle their predecessors’ legacies, arguing that this approach disrupts continuity and progress.
The Senate President also highlighted the absence of the word “sustainability” in the lecture delivered by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and the event’s guest lecturer. Akpabio’s comments underscored his belief that governance should prioritize building lasting institutions and policies rather than being driven by personal vendettas.
Praising Wike’s Leadership
Turning his focus to the man of the hour, Akpabio lauded Wike’s achievements both as governor of Rivers State and as FCT Minister. He described Wike as a “miracle worker” and a “jewel” whose contributions to national development are indelible. Highlighting Wike’s transformative projects in Abuja, including the construction of roads in previously neglected areas, Akpabio credited him with reshaping perceptions of what is possible in governance.
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Akpabio’s admiration for Wike extended to his character, which he described as magnanimous and forgiving. He recounted personal anecdotes illustrating Wike’s ability to move past conflicts quickly. “Nobody with his senses intact would sustain a quarrel with Wike,” he remarked, drawing laughter from the audience.
The Senate President’s glowing tributes painted Wike as a leader whose impact transcends political affiliations. “Your dedication to lifting communities as a governor and now as a minister has left indelible marks on our nation’s history,” he said, adding that Wike’s leadership serves as a beacon of hope.
Wike’s Response: Unbothered by Criticism
In his response, Wike expressed gratitude to the NEW Associates and Senator George Sekibo, the event’s organizing committee chairman, for their efforts in honoring him. Addressing criticisms directed at him, Wike maintained a stance of indifference, emphasizing his focus on delivering results. “The only way to silence your critics is to show them your performance,” he asserted, pointing to ongoing projects in the FCT as evidence of his commitment.
Wike also expressed satisfaction with the support he has received from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “The support Mr. President is giving to me is enough,” he said, dismissing detractors as distractions. He urged his allies to remain focused on their goals, assuring them that success would eventually quiet opposition.
The PDP’s Stand and Arapaja’s Remarks
Representing the PDP at the event, Taofeek Arapaja, the party’s Deputy National Chairman (South), delivered a message of support for Wike. He described the minister as one of the party’s most loyal and committed leaders, despite recent tensions within the PDP. Arapaja’s remarks aimed to counter Akpabio’s criticisms of the PDP, reminding the audience of the Senate President’s own roots in the party.
“The foundation of all political parties is the PDP,” Arapaja declared, adding that Akpabio’s rise to prominence was facilitated by the party. While acknowledging internal challenges, he emphasized that the PDP remains a party committed to equity, justice, and fairness.
Broader Implications and Reflections
The event served as a microcosm of Nigeria’s complex political dynamics, highlighting issues of loyalty, governance, and political strategy. Akpabio’s remarks underscored the importance of legislative-executive harmony in governance, while his critiques of Fubara and the PDP reflected broader debates about political succession and continuity.
Wike’s ability to command such widespread attention and admiration speaks to his influence in Nigerian politics. His tenure as governor of Rivers State and his ongoing work as FCT Minister have positioned him as a key player whose actions and decisions continue to shape the national narrative.
In a country where political alliances are often fluid and contentious, events like this underscore the importance of fostering unity and prioritizing public service over personal or party interests. As the audience dispersed, the echoes of the day’s discussions left much to ponder about the future of governance and politics in Nigeria.
