ABUJA – Former senator Magnus Abe has condemned what he described as unnecessary hysteria and political drama in Bayelsa State over a rumored visit by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
In a statement, Abe expressed concern over the level of mobilization by state officials, traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and political actors to allegedly block Wike’s visit. He said the state appeared to be in the grip of what he termed “Wikephobia”—a fear of the former Rivers State governor.
Despite Wike’s public denial of any intention to visit Bayelsa, Abe noted that tensions have remained high, with continued press briefings, court actions, and political meetings aimed at opposing the minister’s presence.
He urged the Bayelsa State Government to redirect resources used for what he called “anti-Wike campaigns” toward the welfare of its citizens. “The Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of movement to all citizens, including Wike,” Abe stated, pointing out that Governor Douye Diri regularly visits Port Harcourt and Abuja without interference.
Abe further called for a change in political culture within the South-South region, suggesting that improved communication and collaboration among leaders could prevent such incidents. “A simple phone call from Governor Diri to Minister Wike could have saved the state a lot of stress and expenses,” he said.
The senator emphasized the need for unity and maturity among regional leaders, urging a shift from confrontation to cooperation for the sake of regional development.
