In a move that has garnered significant attention, a prominent traditional ruler from Rivers State has publicly rejected former Governor Nyesom Wike’s request to hold a Thanksgiving Service in his domain. The monarch, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, cited growing political tension in the region as the primary reason for his decision.
The monarch expressed concerns that hosting the event, which is traditionally seen as a celebratory gathering, could further escalate political divisions in the already charged political atmosphere of Rivers State. With the state preparing for upcoming elections and heightened political activity, the king believes that the service, which could potentially attract political supporters of various factions, would exacerbate existing hostilities and disrupt the fragile peace in the area.
In his statement, the monarch remarked, “Given the current political climate and the palpable tensions among various political groups, I have come to the difficult conclusion that hosting such an event at this time may inflame passions and deepen the divides in our society. It is my responsibility to maintain peace and unity in my domain, and I must ensure that no action taken under my watch contributes to further unrest.”
Wike, who recently stepped down as governor and has continued to remain a significant figure in Rivers State politics, was reportedly planning the service as a form of thanksgiving for his tenure and achievements during his time in office. However, with political rivalries growing sharper in the region, the monarch’s decision is seen as a reflection of the broader concerns shared by many traditional rulers regarding the political climate.
The Rivers State government and Wike’s camp have yet to respond to the monarch’s decision, but political observers are closely watching the unfolding situation, which highlights the delicate relationship between political leadership and traditional institutions in Nigeria.