The Oduduwa Youths Initiative (OYI) has criticized the actions of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, accusing him of violating the Peace Accord initiated by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement issued by their leader, Otunba Gbenga Ojo, the youths expressed their disapproval, stating that such conduct goes against the Yoruba culture of respecting elders and government authorities.
The Peace Accord, brokered in December 2023 by President Tinubu and other stakeholders, aimed to resolve the political crisis in Rivers State. Despite this agreement, the FCT Minister and his associates have reportedly continued to target Governor Siminalayi Fubara, particularly through the state assembly members.
Ojo highlighted various attempts by the lawmakers, led by Martin Amaewhule, to undermine Governor Fubara’s administration, including vetoing him, amending laws without his assent, and threatening impeachment proceedings.
The Oduduwa youths condemned Wike’s public outbursts and expressed doubt about any possibility of reconciliation with Governor Fubara. They emphasized Governor Fubara’s efforts in implementing the Peace Accord, such as re-appointing pro-Wike commissioners and paying withheld entitlements of lawmakers.
Calling on Wike to apologize for his disregard for the office of the President, Ojo warned of nationwide protests by Yoruba youths demanding Wike’s removal as Minister if he fails to do so within 24 hours.
“We have observed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and commend President Tinubu’s efforts to quell the tensions,” Ojo stated. “However, we are dismayed by the FCT Minister’s failure to abide by the peace agreement, which has led to continued unrest in the state.”
He further criticized the actions of Amaewhule and his allies, accusing them of unconstitutional behavior and serving Wike’s interests at the expense of governance and stability.
“We urge the FCT Minister to apologize promptly for his disrespect towards the President,” Ojo concluded. “Failure to do so will result in widespread protests across the country, demanding his removal from office.”