Former APC Leader Calls for Wike and Egbetokun's Resignation Amidst Rivers Crisis
Timi Frank, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has openly called for the resignations of Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike in the wake of growing violence in Rivers State.
This request comes after political thugs burned down two local government secretariats during recent municipal elections, which Frank blames on law enforcement ineptitude and involvement.
The turmoil in Rivers State erupted after the October 5, 2024, local government elections, which were marked by charges of electoral fraud and violence.
Political thugs allegedly set fire to council secretariats, prompting worldwide outrage and worry about the region's safety and stability.
Frank chastised the police for their apparent inability to safeguard these government assets, alleging that policemen were removed soon before the assaults, enabling the violence to spiral out of hand.
In a statement issued on October 8, Frank accused Wike of using his political clout and purported support from President Bola Tinubu to undermine Governor Siminalayi Fubara's government.
He added that Wike had publicly threatened to stir unrest in states that resisted him, stating, "Wike has vowed to set fire to any state opposed to him, and he has begun by setting Rivers State ablaze."
Frank's comments illustrate a rising fear among political analysts that Wike is using violence to further his political agenda.
Frank also voiced disappointment with President Tinubu's slow reaction to the problem, portraying it as skewed toward Wike's camp.
He highlighted that, although Tinubu ordered police assistance after the violence broke out, it was too late to avoid the devastation.
"The President swore an oath to carry out his duties without fear or favor," Frank said, adding that it is clear he has sided with Wike over the people of Rivers State.
Frank's demands go beyond resignations; he calls for responsibility at every level. He asked Nigerians, especially past leaders and labor organizations, to band together against the violence and defend Rivers State's wealth.
Furthermore, he called on international organizations such as the United Nations to hold those guilty accountable under international law. This request reflects a rising concern that local procedures may be inadequate to confront the disturbance.
Rivers State's political scene has been volatile, especially after Governor Wike's exit from office. His influence remains strong in state politics, with many seeing his activities as a direct threat to Fubara's leadership.
Frank's words reflect a larger concern in political circles about the possibility of more instability as groups compete for power.
The violence has caused not just physical ruin, but also anxiety among citizens. Many people are worried about their safety and the ramifications for governance in Rivers State.
The destruction of local government secretariats disrupts critical services and erodes public faith in political institutions.
As tensions grow in Rivers State, Timi Frank's demands for resignation and responsibility connect with those who are tired of political violence.
The situation remains volatile, with implications for both local administration and national politics as players manage the crisis.
The need for immediate action from both state and federal officials underscores the critical need for competent government that values peace and stability above party loyalty.
COURT SUMMONS YAHAYA BELLO OVER FRESH 16-COUNT ALLEGATIONS
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, presided over by Justice Maryanne Anenih, has issued a public summons to YAHAYA Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, to appear before it and answer to new 16-count accusations against him.
Bello is scheduled to appear in court on October 24 for his arraignment, along with two other defendants who have responded to the summons.
Justice Anenih issued the order for public summons in response to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) appeal.
The Honorable Justice directed the EFCC to publish the summons in a widely circulated publication. She also directed the EFCC to post copies of the Public Summons at Bello's last known residence and at prominent locations on court grounds.
The EFCC claimed that it was unable to serve Bello with the charge filed on September 24, in which the former governor and two others were charged with criminal breach of trust in the amount of $110.4 billion.
The other two defendants in the case are Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
Bello's absence halted the arraignment, which had been planned for Thursday.
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