Tensions flared in Rivers State on Saturday as a group of angry Ijaw women from the Kalabari region vandalized billboards displaying the image of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The destruction occurred at the entrance to Abalama, where Wike was being hosted for a grand reception organized by Ijaw stakeholders under the platform of NEW Associates.
The event, intended as a celebration of Wike’s contributions to the Kalabari Kingdom, faced strong opposition from local traditional rulers and residents. Protesters, predominantly women dressed in black with white scarves, took to the streets in the early hours of the day, blocking the road leading to Abalama. Their objective was to prevent Wike from accessing the community, expressing their dissatisfaction with his presence.
Carrying placards with bold inscriptions such as “Kalabari take your stand now!” and “Wike, what do you want in Kalabari land?”, the demonstrators voiced their grievances. Their frustration quickly turned to action as they tore down the towering billboards erected in Wike’s honour.
Security operatives accompanying the FCT Minister swiftly intervened, dispersing the protesters and clearing the road for Wike’s arrival. Despite the unrest, the grand reception continued as planned.
Dr. Enemi Alabo George, Chairman of the Publicity Committee for the event, insisted that Wike’s visit was widely welcomed by many within the Kalabari Kingdom. He described the gathering as a thanksgiving service and a civic reception meant to honour Wike for his support and contributions to the region.
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The protest highlights the deepening political rift in Rivers State. Wike remains locked in a heated power struggle with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, an Ijaw native, fueling tensions across the state. As the crisis unfolds, the division between political factions within Rivers continues to widen, raising concerns about stability in the region.
