Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has faulted Governor Siminalayi Fubara for allegedly refusing to reinstate His Royal Highness, Eze Ohna Sergent Awuse, as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council after the monarch fell ill.

Wike made the remarks on Sunday during a Christmas visit to his supporters in Emohua Local Government Area, at the palace of Eze Awuse, who also serves as Chairman of the South-South Traditional Rulers Forum.

According to the FCT Minister, Eze Awuse, who had gone into a coma, was unjustly replaced during his illness.

“Chief Awuse was sick and went into a coma. Instead of prayers and support, he was removed as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council. Go and reinstate him,” Wike said.

Eze Awuse was reportedly replaced by Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, appointed by Governor Fubara in 2024. Wike noted that Eze Awuse remains a close ally.

During the visit, Eze Awuse described Wike as “a dependable ally” and commended him for his support, adding that the people of Emohua would back the Minister’s directives. The monarch also lauded President Bola Tinubu’s handling of the economy, noting improvements in the naira’s value.

The FCT Minister concluded with a veiled warning, emphasizing that political reckoning would come in due course.