The political turmoil in Rivers State appears to be nearing resolution, as Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has downplayed the ongoing conflict with the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, asserting that Fubara remains his political protégé.
In a recent interview with BBC News Pidgin, Wike clarified that his disagreements are not with Fubara, but rather with those who incite discord between them. He also refuted speculation regarding his intention to pursue the presidential nomination of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a bid to oppose President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Wike expressed, “This is not a conflict. He (Fubara) is my boy; he is my son; why would I engage in a dispute with him? I am merely contesting against individuals attempting to usurp what they have not earned.”
He emphasised the necessity of defeating those who seek to undermine him, stating, “If you do not defeat them, they will believe they have won. Now, they are embarrassed because they are being outmatched. They are the ones instigating Fubara.”
The political rift between Wike and Fubara has been ongoing since 2023, contributing to a persistent crisis in the state.
Reports have circulated indicating that Fubara, who was suspended by President Tinubu in light of a declared state of emergency, had recently met with Wike to express his apologies. Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, a member of the Rivers State Elders and Leaders Council and founding spokesman for the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), referred to Fubara’s visit as a commendable step towards restoring peace in Rivers State.
Sara-Igbe noted that Fubara has consistently demonstrated a commitment to peace, contrasting it with what he perceived as Wike’s confrontational approach. He remarked, “That discussion is not intended for public disclosure unless the FCT Minister chooses to reveal it. Ultimately, we will learn of the outcomes.” He praised Governor Fubara’s initiative, highlighting the importance of personal sacrifice in the pursuit of peace.
In a related matter, Wike has dismissed rumours suggesting he would seek the PDP’s presidential nomination to challenge President Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Speculation had arisen regarding Wike’s ambitions should the party designate its presidential ticket to southern Nigeria.
However, the former governor of Rivers State affirmed that he would not run against his superior, stating, “I will not contest. Why would I compete against someone I am serving?” When questioned about his views on President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027, Wike noted the lack of a viable opposition candidate to challenge the President, adding, “They claim they will zone it to the South; let them establish that first. When we reach that point, we will determine our course.”
