David Briggs, a former Commissioner during Peter Odili’s administration in Rivers State, has dismissed recent statements by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, claiming he revived Odili's political career. Instead, Briggs credited Odili for propelling Wike’s political journey, including his second term as Obio/Akpor LGA Chairman.
Speaking in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Briggs accused Wike of sowing discord for political survival, citing a history of inciting crises. He stated, “Wike thrives in chaos and cannot survive in a peaceful environment. His claims about Dr. Odili are not only false but also insulting to Rivers people and those of us mentored by Odili.”
Briggs further alleged that Odili, alongside former First Lady Patience Jonathan, played key roles in Wike’s rise, including his governorship. He criticized Wike for disrupting the newfound peace in Rivers State after the restoration of federal allocations, accusing him of stirring tensions to maintain relevance.
Calling on President Bola Tinubu to rein in Wike, Briggs warned the minister to apologize to Rivers people for his alleged actions or face further revelations. He reaffirmed Odili’s legacy as the architect of Rivers State’s political structure and vowed that the people would resist Wike’s tactics.
