Clark – How Jonathan, Wife, Others Forced Wike on Rivers
Clark – How Jonathan, Wife, Others Forced Wike on Rivers
In the vibrant and politically charged atmosphere of Rivers State, the story of Nyesom Wike’s rise to power is a compelling saga of strategic maneuvers, alliances, and the influence of notable political figures. The narrative took a significant turn when Chief Edwin Clark, a respected elder statesman and leader from the Niger Delta, unveiled how former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife Patience, and other influential individuals played pivotal roles in positioning Wike as the governor of Rivers State.
Rivers State, with its rich oil reserves and strategic importance, has always been a hotbed of political activity. The gubernatorial elections are fiercely contested, often drawing national attention. Nyesom Wike, known for his bold and confrontational style, was a central figure in the political landscape, but his ascension to the governorship was far from straightforward.
Chief Edwin Clark, in a revealing interview, shared insights into the intricate political dynamics that paved the way for Wike’s rise. According to Clark, the journey began during the tenure of President Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria’s first president from the Niger Delta region. Jonathan’s presidency was marked by a concerted effort to ensure that key positions within the government and significant states in the Niger Delta were occupied by loyalists who could further the interests of the region.
Rivers State, being a vital part of the Niger Delta, was critical in this strategy. As Jonathan’s tenure progressed, it became increasingly clear that the incumbent governor at the time, Rotimi Amaechi, was veering away from the president’s influence. Amaechi’s growing alliance with the opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), was a cause of concern for Jonathan and his inner circle. This political drift necessitated a decisive intervention to secure Rivers State within the fold of the ruling party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Nyesom Wike, who was serving as the Minister of State for Education, emerged as a formidable candidate to challenge Amaechi’s influence in Rivers State. Known for his loyalty and his political acumen, Wike was seen as the perfect person to reclaim the state for the PDP. However, his path to the governorship was fraught with obstacles, not least of which was the need to secure widespread support within the PDP and among key political figures in the state.
Chief Edwin Clark recounted how a series of strategic meetings were held, spearheaded by former President Jonathan and his wife, Patience. Patience Jonathan, fondly known as “Mama Peace,” was particularly influential in the political affairs of Rivers State, her home state. Her support for Wike was unwavering, and she worked tirelessly behind the scenes to rally support for his candidacy.
The Jonathans, leveraging their political capital, brought together influential stakeholders from the Niger Delta, including traditional rulers, youth groups, and women’s organizations, to build a formidable coalition in support of Wike. Their efforts were complemented by other influential figures within the PDP who recognized the necessity of a united front to counter the growing influence of the APC in the region.
One of the critical moments in this political drama was the PDP primary election. Ensuring that Wike emerged as the party’s candidate required meticulous planning and negotiation. According to Clark, there were numerous closed-door meetings where alliances were forged, and dissenting voices were pacified. The Jonathans’ ability to unify various factions within the PDP was instrumental in securing Wike’s nomination.
Once Wike secured the PDP ticket, the focus shifted to the general election. The campaign was intense, characterized by heated rhetoric and occasional violence. However, the solid backing from the Jonathans and their allies provided Wike with a robust platform to launch his bid for the governorship. Patience Jonathan, in particular, was a visible and vocal supporter, attending rallies and galvanizing grassroots support.
Clark highlighted that despite the challenges, including significant opposition from Amaechi and the APC, Wike’s determination and the strategic support he received were pivotal. The culmination of these efforts was Wike’s victory in the gubernatorial election, marking a significant political shift in Rivers State.
The story of how Jonathan, his wife, and other influential figures orchestrated Wike’s rise is a testament to the complex and often clandestine nature of Nigerian politics. It underscores the importance of strategic alliances, the influence of key political figures, and the relentless pursuit of power in shaping the political landscape of the region.