Founder of TAF Africa, Jake Epelle, has dismissed recent calls for the impeachment of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, insisting that such efforts will not succeed.
Speaking on the matter in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday, Epelle stated unequivocally, “Fubara will not be impeached. Let them take it to the bank.” He argued that despite political maneuvering, due process must be followed, and the people of Rivers State remain firmly behind the governor.
His remarks come following rising political tensions following calls for Fubara’s impeachment, reportedly pushed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the former governor of the state.
However, Epelle stressed that Wike “doesn’t have the constitutional power” to enforce such an action, despite his political influence and deep connections.
Epelle, a native of Opobo like Fubara, made it clear that his stance was not out of bias but from a broader concern for the peace and stability of Rivers State. He urged all parties involved to prioritise dialogue over political conflict.
“We are peaceful, we are resilient, we love this country. Let them say we are a minority, but we are the minority that produces the majority of the economic resources of this country. And we must not give in to them,” he said.
He also called on those making threats and threatening violence to reconsider, urging them not to be “pushed to the edge” by political disputes.
Addressing Wike directly, Epelle urged him to reconsider his approach, warning against actions that could disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens.
“Don’t let your children die. Don’t let people stop going to school. Don’t let people stop getting access to social services,” he pleaded.
He emphasised that Wike, as a political elder, should seek reconciliation rather than division, saying, “Slap him with your right, draw him back with your left.”
Similarly, Epelle cautioned Fubara to be mindful of his actions, reminding him that history will judge leaders based on the problems they solve or create.
“Mr. Fubara, be very careful what you do because history will remember you either for good or bad,” he said.
Epelle also revealed that he had made efforts to mediate between both camps and expressed willingness to meet with Wike, just as he had previously reached out to Fubara. He highlighted Wike’s past achievements, particularly his role in signing Nigeria’s first national policy on albinism, as evidence of his ability to create lasting legacies.
“Please, Mr. Nyesom Wike, don’t destroy your own legacies. Don’t be the one who gathers and scatters,” he urged.
Chioma Kalu
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