Port Harcourt, Sept. 10, 2024 (ChatnewsTV) – Engr Emeka Woke, former Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized former Rivers State Governor, Chief Rufus Ada-George, over his recent attacks on Wike. In an open statement, Woke accused Ada-George of harboring a personal and political agenda under the guise of elder statesmanship, following the former governor’s letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Woke, in his statement, expressed concern over Ada-George’s claims, particularly regarding Wike’s support for Governor Sim Fubara, accusing the ex-governor of exploiting the political situation for his benefit. “The steady barrage of unfounded accusations against Chief Wike—whose only ‘offense’ is his support for Governor Fubara—reveals a troubling bias,” Woke stated.
Woke questioned Ada-George’s sincerity, accusing him of widening the gap between Wike and Fubara instead of fostering unity. “Chief Ada-George’s actions are not those of a reconciliatory elder; they betray an ulterior motive aimed at deepening the divide between the FCT Minister and the governor,” Woke said.
According to Woke, the criticisms are reminiscent of Ada-George’s controversial political interventions in the past. He highlighted Ada-George’s historical involvement in the longstanding rift between former Governors Peter Odili and Rotimi Amaechi, suggesting that Ada-George’s track record disqualifies him as a neutral elder statesman. “Chief Ada-George cannot absolve himself from the chaos that has plagued Rivers State since his tenure as governor,” Woke remarked.
Woke also accused Ada-George of harboring a long-standing bias against leaders from certain parts of the state, particularly through an upland/riverine divide. “His lack of support for Dr. Odili’s governorship ambitions is a glaring example of his entrenched partisanship, and the same divisive tactics are evident now that Wike is involved,” Woke said.
Woke called for clarity and fairness, suggesting that Ada-George’s continued attacks reflect a deeper issue of personal bias. “Those seeking equity must come with clean hands,” Woke warned. “If Chief Ada-George insists on intervening, he must cast aside his biases and ethnic jingoism.”
Woke concluded by praising President Tinubu’s political acumen, asserting that the President will not be swayed by what he called a “juvenile” attempt to manipulate public perception. “President Tinubu is a seasoned politician and leader. He will not be influenced by disingenuous letters from individuals whose biases are glaringly obvious,” Woke said.
Woke urged Ada-George and other elders in Rivers State to embrace genuine reconciliation, rather than continuing to fuel discord. “At this critical juncture, Rivers State deserves true leaders who prioritize reconciliation and integrity over personal agendas,” Woke concluded.
