On Odili’s 76th Birthday, Fubara Calls Him Living Legend, Wike Looks Away
2 min read
A former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike was suspiciously quiet as his estranged political godfather celebrated his 76th birthday. The FCT minister did not make any public statement as he usually whenever Odili and the wife, Mary were marking their birthday.
In 2022, Wike even gave the Odilis a mansion as birthday gift. Throughout the eight years that Wike was in office as governor, he did not forget to celebrate the man he attributed his political successes to. In those days, it was very easy for Wike to sing praises of Odili and the wife, saying if not for the Odilis, he would not have become chairman of Obio/Akpor, the political position that shot him to limelight.
Since last year when Odili failed to support his attacks on Fubara, choosing to take sides with the Rivers State governor, Wike has not been happy with the man. In fact, Wike once made a veiled reference to Odili’s wife as the judiciary consultant to Fubara and also mocked Odili when he said he built a hospital and named it after him.
Wike’s silence on Odili’s birthday notwithstanding, Fubara has sent a goodwill message to the former governor, describing him as a colossus, an exceptional statesman and a living legend and “catalyst for propelling several individuals into political spotlight, both in Rivers State and Nigeria.
He said Rivers State needed “leaders like Dr Peter Odili to take the people to the Promised Land of our dream. You are an embodiment of genuine leadership, a mentor and preeminent political colossus, responsible for elevating every member of the political class in the State, without any pecuniary interest.
“You have continued to lend your voice on critical State issues as a devoted crusader for justice, equity, and fairness in your desire for a peaceful and united Rivers State.”
He added: “I, on behalf of my family and the good people of Rivers State, pray that Almighty God continues to guide, prosper and bless you with resounding sterling health and many more fruitful years celebration and distinguished service to humanity, Rivers State and Nigeria”.
