Wike’s rebuke came during a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt, organized by Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, the factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Wike, in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr. Lere Olayinka, dismissed Odili’s recent comments as politically motivated, after the ex-governor lauded the current Rivers State governor for surpassing the achievements of all previous governors, including Wike.
How can an elder statesman, who should be a guiding figure, degrade himself to a sycophant?” Wike remarked, questioning Odili’s integrity. He went on to highlight the inconsistency of Odili’s praise, citing how the former governor had previously praised Wike’s administration, calling it unparalleled in Rivers State history.
Now, just a year into the new administration, Odili was claiming the current governor had exceeded past achievements.Wike also recalled his efforts in supporting Odili’s legacy, including sponsoring 100 students annually at PAMO University and helping build a mansion for Odili. Yet, Wike expressed disappointment at how Odili was now criticizing him, citing Odili’s apparent shift in political allegiances.Additionally, Wike accused Odili of political hypocrisy, highlighting his decision to appoint his daughter instead of his late elder brother’s son for a political role.
Wike further questioned Odili’s behavior, recalling that the former governor had once criticized the current governor’s public speaking abilities, only to later organize events in his favor.Wike concluded by urging Odili and others to focus on unity and integrity in governance, rather than indulging in divisive politics. “These sycophantic moves won’t elevate you to my level,” Wike said, signaling ongoing tensions within Rivers State’s political circles.