Federal Capital Territory Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has accused former Rivers State Governor Dr. Peter Odili of political sycophancy and opportunism. Wike, speaking at a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt, claimed Odili was politically irrelevant until he revived him during his tenure as governor. He criticized Odili for allegedly praising the incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara while sidelining past efforts, saying, “An elder statesman should not be a trader and a sycophant all the time.”
Wike recalled Odili’s previous praises of his administration, stating that the former governor once described him as the best in Rivers’ history. He accused Odili of now shifting allegiance for personal gain and organizing events to curry favor with the new administration. Wike also highlighted his own contributions to Odili’s legacy, including financial support for PAMO University and building him a mansion.
Responding to Odili’s claims that Fubara prevented him from turning Rivers State into a private estate, Wike countered by pointing to Odili’s family members holding key state positions. “Between him and myself, who has turned Rivers State into a personal estate?” Wike questioned, citing examples of nepotism in Odili’s administration.
The minister further criticized Odili’s contradictory statements over the years, accusing him of dishonesty. “What can I learn from this kind of elder?” Wike asked, adding that political sycophancy will not elevate Odili’s influence. He concluded by reiterating his focus on his duties in Abuja, dismissing attempts to undermine his legacy in Rivers State.