IJAW NATION ERUPTS IN ANGER: WIKE'S CONTROVERSIAL COMMENTS SPARK FURY

 IJAW NATION ERUPTS IN ANGER: WIKE'S CONTROVERSIAL COMMENTS SPARK FURY

A wave of outrage has swept through the Ijaw nation following controversial comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The Ijaw people, who feel insulted and disrespected by Wike's remarks, have taken to the streets in protest, demanding an apology and a retraction of the statements.

The protests, which were largely peaceful, saw thousands of Ijaw people gather in various locations, including Warri, Bayelsa, and Rivers State, to express their anger and disappointment. The protesters carried placards and banners, condemning Wike's comments and calling for greater respect for the Ijaw nation.

At the heart of the controversy are comments made by Wike during an interview, in which he referred to the Ijaw people as "minority of minorities." The Ijaw people have interpreted this remark as a slight, implying that they are inferior to other ethnic groups.

The Ijaw National Frontiers, a group representing the interests of the Ijaw people, has condemned Wike's comments, describing them as "an insult to the Ijaw people" and "an affront to the dignity of our ancestors."

In Rivers State, women from the Kalabari community protested against Wike's visit to the area, blocking roads and vandalising billboards bearing his image. The protesters were reacting to Wike's alleged insult against the Ijaw people, which they saw as a slight against their dignity and heritage.

Despite the protests, Wike attended a grand reception in his honour at the Community Secondary School field in Abalama, Rivers State. In his remarks, Wike claimed that his comments were misunderstood and that he meant no disrespect to the Ijaw people.

Wike explained that his comments were made in the context of the need for unity and cooperation among different ethnic groups in the country. He said that he was committed to working with all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic background, to build a more united and prosperous country.

The protests have highlighted the deep-seated tensions and sensitivities that exist between different ethnic groups in Nigeria. The Ijaw people are demanding respect and recognition for their dignity and heritage, and are calling on Wike to apologise for his comments and retract them.

The situation is being closely monitored by the authorities, who are urging calm and restraint on all sides. The protests have so far been peaceful, but there are concerns that the situation could escalate into violence if not managed carefully.

Sources:

- BBC News, Pidgin

- Premium Times

- The Guardian

Note: The report is written in British English grammar and is based on the provided information.