A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Princewill Dike, has challenged former governor Rotimi Amaechi to address issues raised by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, concerning the management of public resources during his tenure.
Dike made the call in Port Harcourt amid renewed exchanges between the two former political allies over Amaechi’s record in office.
Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation and vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), served as governor of Rivers State before Wike succeeded him.
Wike had alleged that Amaechi misappropriated public funds during his tenure as governor, including money purportedly allocated for fumigation, hospital construction and the sale of gas turbines.
He also accused Amaechi of spending $10 million on fumigation in Rivers State without carrying out the exercise.
He added that $39 million was spent on construction of a hospital that was never built, while proceeds from the sale of gas turbines amounting to $308 million were allegedly squandered through Bureau de Change (BDC) transactions.
Reacting, Dike said public office holders should be willing to clarify questions concerning their stewardship, particularly when issues relating to the management of public resources arise.
He argued that referring to past political relationships would not necessarily resolve disagreements over governance and accountability.
The APC chieftain maintained that addressing issues raised in the public domain could help promote transparency and strengthen public confidence in political leaders.
He also expressed reservations about the political prospects of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Amaechi, urging Nigerians to consider accountability and transparency when assessing those seeking public office.
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Dike stressed the importance of protecting public resources and ensuring that political leaders remained accountable to citizens.
The latest development highlights the continuing political differences between Wike and Amaechi, who were once allies in Rivers State politics.
Amaechi’s position on the issues referenced by Dike was not included in the statement provided for this report.
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