The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly requested the deployment of troops to Abalama Community in Rivers State amid rising tensions ahead of a potentially violent clash between his supporters and those of Governor Sim Fubara.
Sources indicate that Wike made the request to the Chief of Army Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, urging for military intervention to prevent any outbreak of violence during a scheduled event on March 15, 2025.
At the center of the brewing crisis is a planned Thanksgiving Service and civic reception in honor of Wike, which has been met with stiff resistance from King A.B. Tom Tom, the Amayanabo of Abalama. The traditional ruler reportedly refused to grant permission for the event, a move that has angered Wike’s supporters, who remain determined to proceed with the gathering despite the opposition.
Compounding the tension, the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) has scheduled a solidarity rally for Governor Sim Fubara on the same day and at the same venue. The development has raised fears of a violent confrontation between the rival political factions.
Sensing the imminent danger, Wike is said to have appealed to the Chief of Army Staff to deploy troops to the area and allegedly instructed them to “shoot anyone” perceived to be causing trouble.
