Opinion: Gov Wike vs FG, What i think by wale Olaleye

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and the federal government, with the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika as its face, had flexed muscles in the last few days over what I call avoidable turf war.

We don’t have to like Wike but the truth is, he has a point. Yes, the pilots flew in through the airport, a federal government facility but were going to drive through the state under Wike’s command and you didn’t think there should have been a decent communication, including a letter ascertaining the status of the pilots and those onboard?

Let’s call a spade a spade, I think the federal government acted poorly especially, at a time that the two tiers should be working with smooth synergy and keen understanding with the sole intention to defeat a common enemy.

Perhaps, Wike too could have changed approach and be more subtle. He could have reached out to say “much as I recognise that these folks are from you, I also need to establish their Covid-19 status”, after all, it’s an imported virus.

Nonetheless, you guys didn’t have to do that brickbats before resolving a not-so-difficult matter. But, going forward, it’s important the two tiers know their boundaries and always do that which is right particularly, in times like this.

That said, Mr. Wike, so you were worried about the status of expatriates coming into your state but didn’t see the inanity in your decision to relax the lockdown orders for religious gatherings at Easter? What about Easter, sir?

Honestly, that sounded like a decision from someone, who was high on cheap stuff. Really? Your position is somewhat hypocritical, when juxtaposed with the matter above.

Thanks to the sensible religious leaders, who subtly and graciously turned down your “yeyecious gesture”, knowing that the offer was injurious to the collective good of the people of Rivers.

Oga governor, take your time o, Covid-19 no be play play matter.