Wike Declines Invitation of Rivers Panel on Post-Election Violence

Report have emerged that Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, shunned an invitation to appear before the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry. This commission was established by the Rivers State Government to investigate incidents of arson, killings, and property destruction following local government elections in the state.

The seven-member panel, chaired by Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, was inaugurated in October 2024 by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and was tasked with completing its findings and recommendations within a month.

Despite formal invitations sent via courier service and newspaper advertorials, Wike did not attend the session scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024, which was specifically set aside for his appearance.

Justice Minakiri emphasized the importance of Wike's input in addressing unresolved aspects of the investigation, stating, "Today’s sitting was actually for the former Governor of Rivers State to appear before this commission to straighten some points that we needed to know."

The commission also noted the absence of other invitees, including Tony Okocha, the recently dismissed Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State. Despite these absences, the panel plans to proceed with submitting its report. No official statement has been issued from Wike or the other invitees regarding their non-attendance.