Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has proclaimed himself the best governor in the history of Rivers State, countering allegations of personalizing state affairs during his tenure.

Wike made this assertion on Friday during a luncheon in Port Harcourt, responding to comments made by former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili. Odili had commended the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for “emancipating” Rivers residents from what he described as Wike’s alleged attempt to privatize the state.

Dismissing the claims, Wike highlighted his achievements and commitment to the state’s development.

“I paid for Rivers people to become medical doctors and worked to position Rivers State as the medical hub of South-South Nigeria,” Wike stated. “How does investing in the welfare of Rivers people translate to turning the state into my personal estate? I remain the best governor Rivers State has ever had.”

On Sunday, Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, issued a separate statement addressing Odili’s remarks, accusing the former governor of tarnishing his reputation with unfounded claims.

“Odili has reduced himself to a laughingstock by making baseless allegations against Wike, who transformed Rivers State and left an indelible mark on its development,” Olayinka said.

Wike’s statement underscores a brewing political rivalry and diverging opinions on his legacy in Rivers State governance.