Former Imo governor, Rochas Okorocha, says he is a simple and decent politician unlike Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike whom he described as “Nigeria’s most controversial politician” for his “political rascality.”

Mr. Okorocha, made the blunt remarks while he joined Mr. Wike to commission a road project in Rivers State on Monday. He described Mr. Wike as a dogged politician but said would not want anyone to attribute Mr. Wike’s “political rascality” to him.

“You are one of the most controversial politicians in Nigeria because of your political rascality and doggedness and astuteness,” Mr. Okorocha said. “I am here as your senior brother but please do not attribute me to the behavioural pattern of Wike. Rochas is simple and decent and I am not as controversial, though sometimes I am being tagged for those iberiberised politicians.”

A controversial political figure himself, Mr. Okorocha endured many political battles especially during his time as a governor. He is not for making scathing statement, especially against his rivals. He failed in his bid to install his son-in-law as his successor in Imo Government House.

His current run as a serving APC senator was heralded in controversy as INEC held onto his certificate of return over some infractions during ballot counting in his senatorial district. He was later sworn in after some months of legal challenge.

Mr. Okorocha reckons that Mr. Wike has done well by continuing with development projects like his predecessor and arch political enemy, Rotimi Amaechi, adding that collaboration between the PDP and the APC is crucial for development.