How Patience Jonathan’s Floor-Rolling Plea To Edwin Clark Helped Wike Become Rivers Governor

Speaking on a program aired by AIT, Igali disclosed that the former First Lady went as far as rolling on the floor to convince her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and Clark to endorse Wike’s candidacy.

Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was elected Rivers State governor in 2015 and secured re-election in 2019, holding office until May 2023.

This revelation comes in response to Wike’s recent media outburst, where he accused PANDEF of seeking personal favors from President Bola Tinubu.

Defending the delegation, Igali stressed that it comprised respected figures, including senior traditional rulers, ex-governors, senators, and ministers.

“We used to organize retreats for new ministers, instilling ethics—teaching them dignity, decorum, and respect. Not to behave inappropriately, shout at people, or disrespect elders. We are Africans, after all,” Igali remarked.

He further disclosed that Wike’s remarks had offended respected Niger Delta figures, including retired military officers, some of whom personally reached out to express their displeasure.

“Traditional rulers called me, saying, ‘Ambassador Igali, did you take us to the Villa just to be disrespected? Do you know I retired from the army in 1975? Where was that minister then?’ I had to clarify and apologize,” he recounted.

Igali reminded Wike of his past interactions with PANDEF, pointing out that he once sought the group’s endorsement when running for governor.

“You approached PANDEF seeking support for your governorship bid. You knelt before Chief Edwin Clark. I was in the other room. Patience Jonathan rolled on the floor, pleading with President Jonathan to ensure you became governor,” he stated.

He further explained that influential stakeholders, including Chief A.K. Horsfall, the late Alabo Graham-Douglas, and the Etche traditional ruler, were initially opposed to Wike’s candidacy, advocating for a riverine governor. However, Patience Jonathan’s passionate plea swayed the decision in Wike’s favor.

“She begged. And she is alive to confirm it. She rolled on the ground to plead with Chief Clark and others for you,” Igali emphasized.