Kalabari residents in Rivers State on Saturday 15 March came out in their hundreds to protest ahead of the planned visit of former governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to Abalama in Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
The protest follows the rejection of a planned Thanksgiving Service and Civic Reception in Wike’s honour by the Amayanabo of Abalama, King Dr. A. B. Big Tom Tom JP.
The monarch, in a letter to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police dated March 12, 2025, cited political tension and security concerns as reasons for his decision.
He expressed shock at learning about the event on Facebook despite being the paramount ruler of Abalama.
The letter stated: “I and my council of chiefs also resolved that no political activity should be held in Abalama because of the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, and I made a radio announcement to that effect.”
Videos circulating on social media show protesters, including women and youths, carrying placards rejecting Wike’s visit. Some demonstrators blocked roads, causing movement restrictions in the area.
The protesters declared that they would not allow Wike into their community, citing his remark that the Kalabari people are a minority in the state.
This development comes amid the ongoing political rift between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
