By Queen Kunde
Chief Dan Nwanyanwu, the National Chairman of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) has raised an alarm over threats to his life, implicating an associate of Chief Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
In a detailed press statement today, Nwanyanwu recounted a harrowing encounter at the Pastry Shop in Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. He was approached by Mr. Moses Emmanuel, who introduced himself as Wike’s brother. Emmanuel allegedly threatened Nwanyanwu, referencing a recent television interview in which Nwanyanwu criticized Wike’s interference in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been fraught with tension since the transition of power from former Governor Chief Nyesom Wike to incumbent Governor Chief Simi Fubara. Reports have surfaced of ongoing conflicts between factions loyal to Wike and supporters of the new administration. These tensions have been widely covered by media outlets, highlighting concerns over stability and governance in the state.
Nwanyanwu, known for his views on national issues, recently voiced his concerns about Wike’s interference in Rivers State. In a television interview, Nwanyanwu warned that Wike’s actions could lead to a breakdown of law and order, exacerbating Nigeria’s already fragile economic situation. This interview is cited as the catalyst for the recent threats against him.
Nwanyanwu described the confrontation, stating, “This blood-thirsty killer brazenly confronted me at the Pastry shop, Transcorp Hilton where I was having snacks and coffee with my friend Alhaji Aliyu. He introduced himself as a brother to Chief Nyesom Wike, and began to threaten my life.”
The situation escalated, attracting the attention of security personnel at the hotel. Emmanuel was detained and questioned, and he made several phone calls, including one to Chief Chukwu Emeka Woke, Wike’s former Chief of Staff. Nwanyanwu noted that Woke’s response to inquiries about the threat was incoherent, neither confirming nor denying the intent.
Nwanyanwu has formally alerted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) about the threat. He emphasized the severity of the situation, urging a thorough investigation and demanding protection for himself and his family.
“I wish to cease this opportunity to draw the attention of the President, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the involvement of his Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in the threat to my life,” Nwanyanwu stated. He also called for Chief Nyesom Wike to sign an undertaking to be held responsible if any harm befalls him or his family.
The statement highlights Nwanyanwu’s concerns about the broader implications of the threat, stressing the need to protect freedom of expression in Nigeria. “If not nipped in the bud, this situation will degenerate to a point where no Nigerian will be safe anymore to express his opinion on national issues, even as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of expression as an inalienable right of every Nigerian citizen,” Nwanyanwu warned.
Nwanyanwu’s call for action has drawn significant attention, underscoring the importance of addressing political threats and ensuring the safety of public figures in Nigeria. His plea for protection and accountability resonates amidst ongoing concerns about political violence and interference in the country’s governance.