Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly apologised to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu after a group of women in Rivers State staged a walkout during a presidential empowerment event in Port Harcourt.
The incident, which occurred during a programme under the Renewed Hope Initiative aimed at supporting 500 women, saw the group reportedly loyal to suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara exit the venue in protest. According to reports, the women, including some recently removed local government vice-chairpersons, walked out after claiming they had been sidelined in favour of Wike’s supporters.
Wike, who is currently in China on official duties, described the walkout as a “show of shame” and a disrespect to both the First Lady and the dignity of Rivers people. In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, he expressed regret over the behaviour and distanced himself and his allies from the incident.
“On behalf of the good people of Rivers State who value respect and dignity, I apologise to the President and the First Lady for the disgraceful conduct of a few individuals who do not speak for us,” the statement read.
Wike further accused Governor Fubara of orchestrating the incident, alleging that the walkout was politically motivated. He challenged the governor to be transparent in his dealings with the President and stop sending mixed signals under the guise of peace.
“It’s not enough to make public appeals for peace while fuelling division behind the scenes,” Wike stated. “If you truly want peace, your actions must match your words.”
The controversy underscores the deepening political rift in Rivers State, where tensions between the current governor and his predecessor continue to dominate public discourse.
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