Wike Denies Rift with Fubara: Inside the Power Struggle Shaping Rivers State Politics

 

Wike and Fubara political conflict: Nyesom Wike clarifies that his dispute is not with suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara but with external influencers.

Dive deep into the political power struggle destabilizing Rivers State.

 

The political drama in Rivers State has reached boiling point, capturing national attention.

Amid allegations, suspensions, and power plays, one name has consistently remained central Nyesom Wike.

But in a surprising twist, the former Rivers State governor turned FCT Minister claims he is not fighting Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as widely believed.

Instead, Wike says the real battle lies elsewhere.

 

A Political Storm Brewing in Rivers State

 

In the last several months, Rivers State has found itself in the center of Nigeria’s political theatre.

Once a stable stronghold, the state is now in the throes of tension, suspicion, and a seemingly irreparable rift between current and past leadership.

At the heart of the crisis are two key figures: Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara.

 

Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and immediate past governor of Rivers State,

has been accused by many of attempting to maintain a firm grip on the state’s political machinery through his successor, Governor Fubara.

However, during an exclusive interview with BBC Pidgin, Wike provided a different narrative.

 

Wike’s Position: “Fubara is My Son”

 

Dispelling the rumors of a personal feud, Wike told BBC Pidgin:

“He (Fubara) is my boy, he is my son. Why will I fight with him?”

 

He insisted that the real conflict is with those he claims are manipulating Fubara for personal and political gains.

Wike described these individuals as opportunists seeking to “steal what they did not work for.”

 

He continued:

“I’m only fighting against people who want to steal what they did not work for.

When you don’t defeat them, they will think they are in charge. Defeat them to the final stage.”

 

This statement suggests that Wike’s primary concern is not the governor himself but external influencers pulling strings behind the scenes.

 

Timeline of the Crisis: How It All Unfolded

 

The conflict between Fubara and the state’s political class, many of whom remain loyal to Wike, has escalated over time.

Tensions reached new heights in October 2023 when members of the Rivers State House of Assembly attempted to impeach Governor Fubara.

The move polarized the Assembly, leading to factionalism and widespread instability.

 

Political observers quickly pointed to Wike as the mastermind behind the impeachment attempt, a charge he has repeatedly denied.

Despite stepping away from the governorship, Wike’s influence over the state’s political actors remains undeniable.

 

Tinubu’s Intervention and the State of Emergency

 

In a dramatic turn of events, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025,

suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State Assembly.

He appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas to oversee the administration of the state temporarily.

 

This move was met with mixed reactions. While some viewed it as a necessary step to restore order,

others saw it as an overreach and a further escalation of the crisis.

 

Reconciliation Efforts: A Glimmer of Hope?

 

Despite the high tension, there appears to be a flicker of hope for reconciliation.

In a recent meeting in Abuja, Governor Fubara visited Wike accompanied by two APC governors and an elder statesman.

This gesture was interpreted as a peace offering.

 

Wike confirmed the meeting:

“The President has called for peace severally and I cannot sit down when the President has called for peace and I say, ‘I don’t want peace.’

He came with two governors and one elder person. Unfortunately, the two governors are APC governors.

So, I will not pursue him. He said he wants peace. That’s fine. I also want peace.”

 

Although Wike expressed willingness to embrace peace, he also emphasized that any genuine reconciliation must involve the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The lawmakers, he insists, have been marginalized in the process.

 

Who Are the Real Power Brokers?

 

One of the most striking elements of this saga is the consistent claim by Wike that unnamed individuals are manipulating Fubara.

These so-called power brokers are portrayed as a shadow government pulling strings and exploiting Fubara’s position for their own ends.

 

This introduces an important question: If Fubara is not the one Wike is fighting, who exactly are these influencers?

Although Wike has not named names publicly,

political analysts suspect that some members of Fubara’s cabinet and close advisors may be at the center of the conflict.

 

The Impact on Governance

 

The prolonged crisis has significantly impacted governance in Rivers State.

Several projects have stalled, and bureaucratic processes have slowed down as government workers

and civil servants remain uncertain about their loyalties.

The absence of stable leadership and constant internal wrangling has taken a toll on the effectiveness of government services.

 

Citizens are increasingly frustrated.

Many have taken to social media and town hall meetings to voice concerns about the lack of direction and clarity in the state’s governance.

 

The 2027 General Elections: A Brewing Strategy?

 

Beyond the immediate political fallout, many see this power tussle as a strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Rivers State, known for its significant electoral weight, remains a strategic battleground for any political party.

Whether APC or PDP, control over Rivers is essential.

 

Political insiders believe that Wike is positioning himself or an ally for another round of influence, ensuring he remains relevant in Nigeria’s political topography.

His critics argue that this approach undermines the democratic process, especially if it involves the removal or suppression of a sitting governor.

 

Where Does Fubara Stand?

 

Despite the crisis, Siminalayi Fubara has remained mostly silent in public but reportedly resolute behind closed doors.

His supporters argue that he is being unfairly treated and should be allowed to govern without interference.

They believe that the suspension was unjustified and politically motivated.

 

Others, however, argue that Fubara has been too passive and has allowed others to speak and act on his behalf,

weakening his authority and emboldening his opponents.

 

What’s Next for Rivers State?

 

With ongoing calls for reconciliation, there is cautious optimism that the crisis may be resolved before it causes further damage.

But lasting peace will require genuine dialogue, transparency, and a willingness by all parties to place the interests of the people above personal ambition.

 

Conclusion

 

Wike and Fubara political conflict in Rivers State is a reflection of broader systemic issues within Nigerian politics where loyalty is often prioritized over competence,

and where political godfathers struggle to let go.

As the drama unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely,

hoping that Rivers State will rise above the chaos and restore its reputation as a beacon of political stability in the South-South.

 

What are your thoughts on the political power play in Rivers State?

Do you believe reconciliation is truly possible, or is this just another episode in Nigeria’s political drama?

Share your opinions in the comment section below and don’t forget to follow NIGPOST for more in-depth political analysis.

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Author: Political Desk Writer

Date: May 18, 2025