Chief Edwin Clark, a respected elder statesman and National Leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, has strongly criticized the actions of Governor Nyesom Wike and his supporters in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. According to Clark, Wike's camp has resorted to desperate and illegal measures in a bid to cling to power as their political fortunes continue to dwindle.
Clark alleged that Wike's allies colluded with lawmakers to challenge in court the defection of certain members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite the judge's initial ruling that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter. He described this move as a futile attempt to subvert the law and the democratic process.
The elder statesman emphasized that individuals who are no longer part of the House cannot unilaterally extend the tenure of local government chairmen, stressing that such actions are null and void. He argued that Wike's tactics are a clear indication of desperation and a disregard for the rule of law.
Clark's remarks come as the political crisis in Rivers State continues to escalate, with both sides digging in their heels. The elder statesman's intervention has added weight to the concerns of many Nigerians who are worried about the implications of this crisis for the country's democracy.