••Urges Elder Statesmen to Avoid Sycophancy.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly criticized Dr. Peter Odili, a former governor of Rivers State, accusing him of sycophancy and self-interest. Speaking at a Special Thanksgiving Service in Port Harcourt, Wike claimed he revitalized Odili’s political presence after years of obscurity and expressed disappointment over Odili’s recent actions.
Wike, who succeeded Odili as governor, emphasized that elder statesmen should not engage in sycophancy and should uphold dignity and integrity. He refrained from inviting former President Olusegun Obasanjo to commission projects in Rivers State during his governorship to avoid embarrassing Odili.
The FCT minister responded to Odili’s praise for current Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who Odili claimed stopped Wike from privatizing the state. Wike countered by highlighting Odili’s political maneuverings, including his influence in appointing family members to significant positions within the state.
Wike detailed his contributions to Odili’s legacy, including the establishment of PAMO University, supported by substantial funding from the Rivers State government. He also recounted building a mansion for Odili, which Odili once showcased as a testament to Wike’s support.
Despite previous accolades from Odili, Wike criticized him for shifting allegiances and questioned his consistency and reliability as an elder statesman. Wike expressed surprise at Odili’s claim that Fubara, early in his tenure, had surpassed the achievements of all past governors, including himself.
Wike also reflected on Odili’s political ambitions, noting that Odili withdrew from a presidential race due to pressure from Obasanjo, a decision that Wike respected by not inviting Obasanjo to Rivers State during his tenure.
In his remarks, Wike urged Odili to cease sycophantic behavior and focus on genuine elder statesmanship, emphasizing the need for integrity and consistency in political discourse. He concluded by reaffirming his achievements and focus on his current role in Abuja, dismissing political sycophancy as ineffective for long-term success.
