Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, insisting that the political structure now being derided by the governor played a decisive role in his emergence as governor.
Wike made the remarks on Saturday during a visit to Okrika Local Government Area, where he addressed supporters amid widening political realignments in the state. His comments came as the Rivers State chapter of the Ijaw People’s Congress publicly announced its withdrawal of support for Governor Fubara and its decision to align with Wike.
Responding to remarks attributed to the governor, Wike said the same political forces being mocked today were instrumental in securing Fubara’s victory at the polls. He suggested that political fortunes are cyclical and warned against dismissing allies who once delivered success.
The former Rivers governor said political tensions in the state were easing, with former rivals now working together in what he described as a broader movement beyond party lines. According to him, the new alignment reflected a determination to correct past political errors and ensure unity across the state.
Wike dismissed claims that his political camp lacked electoral relevance, arguing that success in politics depended on organisation and mobilisation rather than assumptions about voting percentages. He also defended his personal and professional record, rejecting criticisms of his educational background and political credibility.
Addressing allegations that he was behind legal challenges faced by some political opponents, Wike denied any involvement, noting that several of the cases being referenced predated his current political position.
He said his visit to Okrika was aimed at appreciating loyal supporters and reinforcing political partnerships, while cautioning against the belief that financial resources alone could guarantee electoral victory.
The political significance of the visit deepened when the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress formally declared its support for Wike. Speaking at the event, the group’s chairman, Senator George Sekibo, described the rift between Wike and Governor Fubara as regrettable but said the Ijaw people could not ignore Wike’s past support for their political advancement.
Sekibo pledged the group’s loyalty to Wike and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the Ijaw community would stand by leaders who had consistently supported them.
Other speakers, including Okrika Local Government Council Chairman Akuro Tobin and Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Stewart, praised Wike for his political mentorship and support for women and grassroots development.
In his closing remarks, Wike thanked the people for their continued backing of President Tinubu, whom he described as dependable, and hinted that decisions concerning the 2027 elections had already been made. He later paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, urging traditional rulers to maintain neutrality while offering counsel when necessary.
