Wike Rejects Tompolo’s Call For Reconciliation, Says Fubara Hasn’t Sought Forgiveness

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed a reconciliation appeal made by former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, insisting that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has not approached him for forgiveness.

In a statement released by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike emphasized that reconciliation requires a recognition of wrongdoing and a personal request for pardon—neither of which, he said, has come from Governor Fubara.

Tompolo had earlier urged Wike to temper his anger and reconcile with Fubara in the interest of peace in Rivers State. “Wike is angry, but he has to bring his temper down for the good of all,” Tompolo stated, adding that dialogue was necessary to resolve tensions and restore political stability.

However, Wike’s camp responded with skepticism, questioning the sincerity and intent of such reconciliation efforts.

“There is no offence. It is when someone personally offends you that forgiveness becomes necessary. Even if we assume Fubara did offend the minister, has he come forward to acknowledge it or seek forgiveness?” Olayinka asked rhetorically.

He further clarified that Wike’s grievances were not personal but rooted in concerns over governance and loyalty.

“The minister never said Fubara offended him personally. He only asked that Fubara govern according to the rule of law and not abandon those who risked everything to support him. That’s not too much to ask,” the statement said.

Olayinka also suggested that Fubara should reflect on his actions and the shift in his relationship with Wike.

“Fubara should ask himself: when did Wike suddenly become a bad person? When did he become someone Fubara could threaten to ‘deal with’? If there’s anyone he has wronged, it should be the president,” he added.

Concluding with a proverb, Olayinka said, “It’s like asking a doctor to prescribe medicine for a sick person, but not convincing the sick person to take it. What’s the result?”

The rift between Wike and Fubara has remained a source of political tension in Rivers State, despite repeated calls from various stakeholders for reconciliation.