The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, failed to appear before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry established by the Rivers State Government to investigate the arson, killings, and widespread destruction in several local government areas of the state.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara had set up the seven-member panel, led by Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, in early October, giving it one month to complete its work. The commission had formally summoned Wike through both courier service and a public newspaper notice, asking him to attend the proceedings on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
However, when the commission reconvened on Tuesday, Justice Minakiri reported that the FCT minister had not honored the invitation. She noted that the session had been scheduled specifically for Wike’s appearance to address certain issues. Minakiri explained, “Today’s session was specifically for the former Governor of Rivers State to appear and clarify some points. That was the only purpose of today’s sitting. Otherwise, we would have concluded yesterday. We had hoped he would be here, but we waited in vain.”
Minakiri further indicated that the commission would conclude its hearings that day unless directed otherwise by the governor. “As we conclude today, this marks the end of our sittings unless His Excellency gives further instructions,” she said.
The commission chair also expressed concern over the absence of other key invitees, including Chief Tony Okocha, the Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers, and former local government chairmen from Ikwerre, Obio/Akpor, Ahoada West, and Eleme. None of them attended, nor did they send legal representatives.
“There is no one here today,” Minakiri observed. “We made the necessary public announcements inviting those we wished to hear from, including His Excellency. But as you can see, no one has shown up, so this brings us to the end of the sitting.”
Despite the no-shows, Justice Minakiri affirmed that the panel would proceed with its report. “I want to thank everyone who attended, and those who joined us today. Your presence has made our work easier, and we hope the outcome will ultimately benefit the people and the state of Rivers.”
The absence of the invited individuals, including Wike and Okocha, has raised questions about the level of cooperation with the commission’s investigation.
