As the political atmosphere in Rivers State heats up ahead of the forthcoming local government elections, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and close ally of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has issued a stern warning to some youths of the APC in Ikwerre Local Government Area.
The warning follows boastful remarks reportedly made by the youths, who claimed they would “retire” political heavyweights such as Amaechi and former Governor Celestine Omehia from active politics in the state. Eze, in his response, described such statements as reckless and unbecoming, particularly from young members who are expected to respect party elders and leaders who have sacrificed significantly for the growth of the APC in Rivers State and beyond.
He reminded the youths that Amaechi, as a former two-term governor of Rivers State and a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, laid much of the political foundation upon which the state currently thrives. Similarly, Celestine Omehia, despite his short-lived tenure as governor, remains a respected political figure whose contributions cannot be dismissed with mere rhetoric.
According to Eze, politics should be about respect, unity, and service, not arrogance and destructive ambition. He urged the young party members to focus on consolidating the APC’s strength in Rivers State, especially as the party continues to reposition itself ahead of critical elections. He warned that divisive comments and actions would only weaken the APC, giving rival parties an edge in the coming polls.
The elder statesman further emphasized the need for mentorship in politics, noting that young politicians should learn from the wealth of experience possessed by veterans like Amaechi, who has held national appointments and played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s political direction at different points.
Eze’s caution has since generated reactions within political circles in Rivers State. While some party loyalists agree with his stance, urging for restraint and unity, others argue that the younger generation must be allowed to express themselves and challenge the status quo. Still, the consensus remains that public disparagement of party leaders could spell disunity within the ranks of the APC in Rivers.
With the local government elections drawing closer, the APC in Rivers State faces the dual task of addressing internal rifts while preparing to battle the dominance of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Observers believe that how the party handles issues such as this will determine whether it emerges stronger or further weakened ahead of future contests.
As Rivers politics continues to unfold, Chief Eze’s intervention serves as both a caution and a reminder: the road to political relevance requires not just ambition but also respect, patience, and strategic cooperation.
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