Former Rivers State governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has arrived in Abalama, Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that his visit is for a Thanksgiving Service and Civic Reception organized in his honor.
However, the event has triggered strong opposition from the community’s traditional ruler and residents.
The rejection comes amid concerns over escalating political tension in Rivers State.
Earlier in the day, protests erupted across the town as angry residents took to the streets.
Demonstrators blocked roads and carried placards denouncing Wike’s presence in the community.
Videos circulating online show men, women, and youths voicing their disapproval.
They chanted slogans demanding that Wike stay away from Abalama.
Protesters accused Wike of undermining the Kalabari people by calling them a minority in the state.
They insisted that his presence was unwelcome and vowed to resist any political activity tied to him.
The Amayanabo of Abalama, King Dr. A. B. Big Tom Tom JP, has also distanced the community from the event.
In a letter to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police dated March 12, 2025, he rejected the gathering.
The monarch expressed shock upon discovering the event was planned without his consent.
He emphasized that security concerns were a key reason for rejecting the program.
According to him, the community’s council of chiefs had earlier resolved to ban all political activities in Abalama.
This decision was made to prevent further unrest amid the ongoing political crisis in the state.
A public announcement was made on the radio to reinforce this resolution.
Despite this, Wike’s supporters proceeded with plans for the reception, escalating tensions.
Observers warn that the situation could spiral out of control if not managed carefully.
The standoff between Wike and his political opponents has widened divisions within Rivers State.
With growing unrest, residents fear that violence may erupt if urgent steps are not taken.
Security agencies have yet to release an official statement on the escalating tension.
The crisis highlights the fragile nature of Rivers State politics and the deepening rift among its key players.
