PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: In a scathing critique directed at the current administration, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the now-defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), has castigated President Bola Tinubu’s governance trajectory.
Eze expressed concerns about what he perceives as a directionless path, citing prevailing economic realities and actions taken by key figures within the administration.
In a statement provided to the media, Eze underscored the importance of democratic principles in governance, emphasizing the need for responsible decision-making that positively impacts the populace. He condemned what he termed as authoritarian actions, particularly highlighting the recent demolitions in the FCT orchestrated by Minister Nyesom Wike, whom he accused of using power to oppress perceived adversaries under the guise of reform.
Eze squarely placed the blame on President Tinubu for allegedly turning a blind eye to Wike’s moral shortcomings. He criticized the appointment of Wike as a Minister despite public opposition, citing concerns of dishonesty, non-performance, and abuse of office that have allegedly marked Wike’s political career.
“Character is key in public office appointments in civilized societies unlike Nigeria,” noted Eze, lamenting the elevation of individuals like Wike, whose alleged inconsistencies and moral poverty, according to him, fall below acceptable standards for public servants.
Drawing attention to Wike’s contradictory statements over time, Eze highlighted instances where the Minister allegedly made promises or declarations that clashed with subsequent actions or claims. He pointed out Wike’s previous assertions about not imposing successors in Rivers State juxtaposed against recent events where he purportedly supported gubernatorial candidates, illustrating what Eze sees as Wike’s character inconsistencies.
Moreover, Eze referenced Wike’s statements regarding political affiliations, wherein Wike adamantly expressed his loyalty to the PDP while denouncing the APC, only to be later appointed by the latter. Eze criticized the dissolution of the Rivers APC State Exco, replacing it with Wike loyalists, which he deemed a misguided attempt to rectify the purported “cancer” within the party.
Further, Eze highlighted Wike’s conflicting statements about future aspirations, implying a lack of consistency in his political intentions and ambitions, expressing concerns about the implications of such unpredictability.
Concluding his critique, Eze expressed hope that the current administration, through Wike’s appointment, has not embarked on a misguided path and urged a reevaluation of the decision-making process concerning ministerial appointments.
In the wake of these pointed criticisms, the debate over the consistency, integrity, and suitability of key figures within the administration has once again come to the forefront, drawing attention to the broader concerns surrounding political appointments and governance standards.