By: Daure David
The Pioneer President of Ijaw Women Connect, Comrade Rosemary Aken John-Oduone, has fiercely criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his recent remarks regarding the Ijaw ethnic group. John-Oduone labeled Wike a “cheap blackmailer and a bully,” following his comments on the Ijaw people’s status in the Niger Delta and his ongoing conflict with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The controversy erupted during an appearance by Wike, who controversially stated that the Ijaws were a minority in the Niger Delta, a claim that has since sparked outrage among Ijaw leaders and community members. Speaking on GbaramatuVoiceTV’s Beyond the Headlines on Thursday, John-Oduone strongly dismissed the FCT minister’s statement, asserting that the Ijaw people remain one of Nigeria’s most significant and dominant ethnic groups, particularly within the Niger Delta region.
John-Oduone’s passionate response highlighted the rich history and influence of the Ijaw people, asserting that Wike’s remarks were not only misleading but were an attempt to undermine the significance of the Ijaw ethnic group in the political and cultural landscape of Nigeria.
“Wike’s comments are not just an attack on the Ijaw ethnic group but also an affront to the collective identity and unity of the Niger Delta people. His words reveal a pattern of divisive rhetoric that seeks to belittle and marginalize the Ijaw, a people who have made invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s development,” John-Oduone said during the televised interview.
The heated exchange also touches on the broader tensions between Wike and Fubara, as political differences between the two leaders continue to shape the dynamics of governance in the region. John-Oduone criticized Wike for fueling unnecessary animosity and accused him of using his position to settle personal political scores at the expense of regional unity.
The Ijaw leader called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders to address what she described as “unprovoked divisive rhetoric” that has the potential to disrupt the fragile peace and unity in the Niger Delta region.
As the dispute escalates, observers are closely watching how this will affect the ongoing political climate in Rivers State and the larger Niger Delta. With tensions running high, many are urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue for the sake of regional harmony and development.
John-Oduone’s comments are the latest in a growing list of criticisms aimed at Wike, as his leadership style continues to draw both support and condemnation from various quarters of Nigerian society.
