Elder statesman and Pan-Niger Delta Forum national leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has urged the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Umar Damagum, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdulahi Ganduje, to distance themselves from an alleged attempt by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to undermine Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s government. Clark conveyed this message in a letter dated May 20, 2024, addressed to both party chairmen. The letter, shared with the correspondent on Monday, emphasizes peace and stability in the country, noting the support given to Wike by both men that led to an attempt to destabilize the Fubara-led administration.
Clark advises both chairmen to dissociate themselves from Wike’s plan, urging them to take control of their parties in Rivers State instead of leaving it to Wike, who isn’t affiliated with either party. He criticizes the APC Chairman for engaging with the state’s Caretaker Committee, allegedly appointed by Wike after Emeka Beke’s suspension.
Clark questions the APC Chairman’s collaboration with a caretaker committee introduced by Wike, despite the legal battle initiated by the elected Chairman, Emeka Beke. He points out that loyalists to Wike shouldn’t have been imposed as the caretaker committee in Rivers State without proper removal procedures.
Additionally, Clark raises concerns about the PDP Chairman’s awareness of Wike’s anti-party activities, accusing Wike of obtaining court injunctions against prominent PDP members, preventing them from attending the party’s National Executive Council meeting. Clark urges the chairmen to caution Wike and withdraw from the political turmoil in Rivers State to avoid exacerbating the crisis.
As a seasoned statesman, Clark emphasizes the importance of addressing the political unrest in Rivers State to prevent further escalation. He urges both chairmen to refrain from participating in what he describes as the chaotic politics of the state, posing a threat to its stability and the nation’s economy.
