POLITICS
“You think I’m a fool? I’m a fool? Well, there’s always time for wrestling.” — FCT Minister, Nysome Wike Blasts Governor Fubara Over Failure to Reinstate Emohua Monarch, Says Leadership Reckoning Will Come With Time
A fresh layer has been added to the deepening political tension in Rivers State as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, publicly criticized Governor Siminalayi Fubara over the continued refusal to reinstate His Royal Highness, Eze Ohna Sergeant Awuse, the Paramount Ruler of Emohua, as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council.
According to a Daily Post report, Wike made the remarks on Monday, December 29, 2025, during a special Christmas visit to his political associates in Emohua Local Government Area. The visit took place at the palace of Eze Awuse, who also serves as the head of the South-South Traditional Rulers Forum.
Speaking before traditional leaders and political allies, Wike expressed deep displeasure over what he described as the unjust removal of the revered monarch during a period of severe ill health. He recalled that Eze Awuse was incapacitated and in a coma at the time the Rivers State Government decided to strip him of his position, rather than offering institutional support or standing in solidarity through prayers and goodwill.
Wike faulted the decision, stressing that leadership demands compassion, patience, and respect for traditional institutions, especially in moments of vulnerability. He noted that despite repeated appeals and calls from concerned stakeholders for the reinstatement of the monarch after his recovery, the state government has remained unmoved.
In a moment that drew strong reactions from those present, Wike openly questioned the motives behind the decision and issued a pointed warning about political consequences, stating, “You think I’m a fool? I’m a fool? Well, there’s always time for wrestling.” He added that genuine leadership is often revealed not in haste, but when the right moment presents itself.
The FCT Minister further reminded his audience that history has a way of vindicating those who stand on the side of truth and justice, emphasizing that power is transient but legacy is enduring.
It will be recalled that during Eze Awuse’s incapacitation, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, was appointed as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council.
During the visit, Eze Wodo expressed profound gratitude to Wike, describing him as a steadfast ally of Emohua people and acknowledging the significant role Wike has played in providing political direction and leadership over the years.
The monarch also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, noting improvements in the value of the national currency and Nigeria’s growing international recognition.
He concluded by reaffirming the unflinching loyalty of the Emohua people to Nyesom Wike, declaring that they remain firmly aligned with his political direction and would continue to support any candidates, movements, or causes he chooses to endorse.
The episode further underscores the widening rift within Rivers State’s political landscape, with traditional institutions now drawn into the broader power struggle shaping the state’
s political future.