The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on his predecessor as governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, to account for $308 million realised from the alleged sale of a gas turbine belonging to the state. Wike made this demand during a Town Hall interactive meeting with the Ogbakor Etche and other stakeholders in Etche Local Government, Rivers State, on Sunday. The FCT Minister's request has sparked renewed interest in the financial dealings of the previous administration.
According to Wike, the gas turbine was sold during Amaechi's tenure as governor of Rivers State, but the whereabouts of the funds remain unclear. The FCT Minister asked, “You sold Rivers Power Plants for $308m, where is the money?” He also urged all national television stations to invite Amaechi to explain the transaction and account for the funds. Wike's comments have reignited the debate over the management of state resources during Amaechi's administration.
Wike's demand for accountability has been supported by the people of Etche, who are seeking a share of the proceeds from the gas turbine sale. The FCT Minister emphasised that the $308 million is equivalent to N419 billion, a substantial amount that could have significant impacts on the state's development. He encouraged the people of Etche to demand answers from Amaechi about their share of the funds, saying, “If television people cannot ask him, Nde Etche please ask him about your own share from the sale of the turbine.”
The Town Hall meeting, which was attended by traditional rulers in Etche LG, provided a platform for Wike to engage with stakeholders and address pressing issues in the area. During the meeting, the traditional rulers presented a symbolic traditional kola to the FCT Minister, a gesture that underscored their respect for his office and his commitment to the region. The event was a significant opportunity for Wike to connect with the local community and address their concerns.
Wike's criticism of Amaechi is not an isolated incident, as the two have had a history of disagreements. The current FCT Minister has been vocal about his differences with Amaechi, who is now the Vice President candidate of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC). Their rivalry has played out in the public domain, with both men trading accusations and counter-accusations. The latest development has added fuel to the fire, with many stakeholders eagerly awaiting Amaechi's response.
The gas turbine sale has become a contentious issue, with many questioning the transparency and accountability of the transaction. While Amaechi's administration may have had legitimate reasons for selling the asset, the lack of clarity on the use of funds has raised suspicions. Wike's demand for accountability has brought the issue back into the spotlight, and it remains to be seen how Amaechi will respond to the allegations.
The development has also sparked reactions from various stakeholders, who are calling for greater transparency and accountability in the management of state resources. As the 2027 elections approach, issues of governance and financial management are likely to take centre stage. Wike's comments have set the tone for a wider conversation about the accountability of public officials and the management of state resources.
Key points
- FCT Minister Nyesom Wike demands accountability from predecessor Rotimi Amaechi over $308m realised from alleged sale of Rivers State's gas turbine.
- Wike urges national television stations to invite Amaechi to explain the transaction and account for the funds.
- The people of Etche are seeking a share of the proceeds from the gas turbine sale, which is equivalent to N419 billion.
