Heated exchange of words, a close ally of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has sharply criticized Elder Statesman and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Clark. The remarks come in response to Clark’s recent criticisms of Wike’s role in the Niger Delta, labeling him as a divisive figure within the region....READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
Wike’s ally, who remains unnamed, responded furiously to Clark’s statements, asserting that the former governor has contributed significantly to the development of the Niger Delta, far more than many of his critics. He went further to declare, “Edwin Clark is not the Asiwaju of Niger Delta politics and should return to his village if he cannot acknowledge the strides Wike has made.”
The conflict between the two leaders has stirred up long-standing tensions over who truly represents the interests of the Niger Delta people. While Chief Clark has been seen as a strong voice advocating for the region’s development, Wike’s camp believes that Clark’s recent criticisms are unwarranted and politically motivated.
The dispute also highlights deeper political rivalries as Wike takes on more prominent national roles, following his appointment as a minister in President Tinubu’s administration. His supporters argue that Wike’s leadership has brought much-needed infrastructural development and reforms to the Niger Delta, a claim that Chief Clark and his supporters contest.
The larger question at play here is: who truly represents the voice of the Niger Delta people? Clark, with his decades of activism and political influence, still commands respect among many, but younger leaders like Wike are pushing for a new narrative — one centered around modernization and tangible progress rather than symbolic leadership.
Critics argue that the divide between the two leaders could weaken the Niger Delta’s unified front in seeking solutions to the region’s problems, particularly in the areas of environmental degradation, unemployment, and resource control.
Many are urging both sides to come together for the greater good of the Niger Delta. Political experts have warned that continued infighting could have negative consequences on the region’s ability to demand better policies from the federal government.
The ongoing war of words between these two Niger Delta heavyweights is far from over, and the outcome may very well shape the future direction of the region’s politics. For now, however, the clash between Edwin Clark and Wike’s ally highlights the deep divisions in Niger Delta leadership, with both sides firmly standing their ground.
