The ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State has once again brought to the fore the unchecked influence of former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Amid the crisis, Elder Anabs Sara-Igbe, a respected voice in Rivers politics, has rightly called for Wike’s suspension, arguing that he is the mastermind behind the chaos engulfing the state. Given Wike’s track record of political maneuvering, his open defiance of democratic norms, and his role in undermining Governor Siminalayi Fubara, President Bola Tinubu must heed Sara-Igbe’s call and suspend Wike from office.

It is no secret that Nyesom Wike wields an almost dictatorial grip on Rivers politics. Even after leaving office as governor, he has refused to relinquish control, treating the state as his personal fiefdom. His political antics, characterized by high-handedness, intimidation, and absolute disregard for democratic processes, have created a toxic atmosphere that has stifled governance in the state.

The recent political upheaval in Rivers State, which led to President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency, is a direct consequence of Wike’s desperate attempt to retain influence. Despite installing Siminalayi Fubara as his successor, Wike has consistently sought to undermine him, ensuring that the new governor remains a puppet rather than an independent leader. This approach is not only undemocratic but also a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, there is no denying the fact that Tinubu’s one-sided sanctions is a blatant injustice. Against the backdrop of the foregoing observation, it is not illogical to be in support of Elder Sara-Igbe’s argument that Wike should be sanctioned alongside Fubara as such decision would be seen to be rooted in fairness and justice. This is as the decision by President Tinubu to suspend Fubara and his deputy while allowing Wike to remain in office reeks of bias, and condemnable enough. If political instability is the basis for intervention, then it is only logical that the chief instigator of the crisis should also face consequences.

In fact, suspending an elected governor, who, by all indications, has been the victim of political bullying, while allowing the primary aggressor to remain in power sends a dangerous message. It suggests that those who wield influence at the center can manipulate the system to their advantage, regardless of the harm done to democracy and governance. If Tinubu truly believes in justice and stability, Wike must be held accountable.

Beyond the current crisis, Wike’s political career has been marked by arrogance, divisiveness, and a disregard for due process. He has insulted political elders, disparaged ethnic groups, and fostered an environment of fear and sycophancy in Rivers State. His open defiance of political allies and enemies alike has made him a divisive figure whose continued presence in government is a liability rather than an asset.

Under his leadership, Rivers State became a theater of political warfare, where opposition voices were stifled, and dissent was met with brute force. His controversial tenure as governor saw a weaponization of state institutions against perceived enemies, and his transition to the federal level has done little to change his approach. Wike’s recent actions in Rivers only reinforce the notion that he thrives in an atmosphere of chaos and conflict.

If Wike is allowed to continue operating unchecked, the consequences for Rivers State and Nigerian democracy could be dire. Political instability will only worsen, and governance in Rivers will remain stalled as a result of Wike’s overbearing influence. Already, the state has been thrown into turmoil, with disruptions in governance, civil unrest, and an erosion of public trust in the democratic process.

Moreover, Wike’s continuous meddling will embolden other power-hungry politicians to subvert the democratic process for personal gain. If one individual can manipulate the political system without consequence, others will undoubtedly follow suit. This will set a dangerous precedent and undermine efforts to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.

If President Tinubu wants to restore peace to Rivers State and maintain his credibility as a leader committed to justice, then he must act swiftly by suspending Nyesom Wike. The call by Elder Sara-Igbe is not only valid but necessary to prevent further deterioration of governance in Rivers State.

By taking decisive action against Wike, Tinubu will send a clear message that no individual, regardless of their political influence, is above accountability. It will also signal to other power-hungry politicians that Nigeria’s democracy is not a playground for personal ambitions at the expense of the people’s welfare.

Additionally, Tinubu must go beyond just suspending Wike. He should institute a thorough investigation into the ongoing crisis in Rivers State to determine the root causes and hold all guilty parties accountable. A neutral committee should be set up to assess the political situation, listen to key stakeholders, and recommend long-term solutions that will ensure Rivers State is free from undue political interference.

While the president has significant executive powers, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies also have a role to play in ensuring justice prevails. Investigative bodies should be empowered to scrutinize Wike’s actions in Rivers State, particularly his political dealings and any infractions committed while in office. If evidence suggests he has engaged in activities that threaten democracy or contravene the law, he should be prosecuted accordingly.

Furthermore, law enforcement agencies should remain neutral and resist being used as political tools. The Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies must protect democratic institutions rather than side with political actors seeking to subvert them. A politically motivated approach to security matters in Rivers State will only deepen the crisis and lead to further instability.

Beyond the government’s intervention, civil society organizations, the media, and the Nigerian people must also play a role in demanding accountability from political leaders. The press must continue to shine a light on the situation in Rivers State and expose any attempts to manipulate the system for personal gain. Civic engagement is also crucial, Nigerians must demand better governance and hold their leaders to higher standards of accountability.

Public opinion should not be ignored in this matter. The people of Rivers State, in particular, must raise their voices against political oppression and interference. Their state should not be used as a battleground for the egos of politicians seeking to remain relevant. Instead, Rivers should be allowed to thrive, with governance centered on the needs of its people rather than the ambitions of one man.

The political crisis in Rivers State is a direct consequence of Wike’s desperate hold on power. Elder Sara-Igbe’s call for his suspension is a reasonable demand that should not be ignored. If President Tinubu genuinely values justice, fairness, and stability, he must take the bold step of suspending Wike. Anything short of that will further erode public trust in the administration and embolden politicians who believe they can act with impunity. The time for decisive action is now.

If the federal government fails to take action, the political landscape in Rivers State will continue to deteriorate, with dire consequences for democracy and governance in Nigeria. Suspending Wike is not just about politics, it is about restoring justice, upholding democratic principles, and ensuring that power is used for the people, not against them.