Imagine being hoisted into power by a loyal ally, only to turn around and bite the hand that fed you. That's the explosive situation unfolding in Rivers State, and former governor Nyesom Wike isn't holding back. He's publicly excoriated his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, claiming Fubara owes his position to the very same political forces he now derides.
According to reports, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike launched a scathing response to Governor Fubara's recent actions, reminding him that the political machinery and individuals Fubara now dismisses were instrumental in his ascension to the governorship. Wike's comments came during a thank-you tour to the Okrika Local Government Area, a region known for its strong political ties to him. He emphasized the growing unity within Rivers State, suggesting that previous political fault lines were dissolving. But here's where it gets controversial... Wike's statements hint at a power struggle brewing beneath the surface of Rivers State politics, a struggle with potentially significant implications for the region's future.
Addressing a large gathering, Wike directly referenced Fubara's alleged disparaging remarks, pointedly stating, "That same dog barked and helped make you governor.” He elaborated, explaining that these now-criticized individuals were actively supporting Fubara even when he was relatively unknown. Wike then added, “It is one of fate that the same dog is barking again. I wish you good luck.” This metaphorical “dog” represents the political forces Wike believes Fubara is now undermining – the very forces that propelled him into office. The implication is clear: Fubara is biting the hand that fed him, and Wike believes this ingratitude will ultimately lead to Fubara's downfall.
Wike further asserted that the political landscape in Rivers State is undergoing a transformation, with former adversaries uniting for a common political objective. He stated that these alliances transcend party lines, suggesting a deeper, more fundamental shift in the state's political dynamics. “I believe in you, and that belief will take you places. We used to have some problems, but today everyone is working together. That means there is no longer any no-go area. We are not talking about party here; we are talking about the real Hope family. All of us have decided that we are going to work together. We will not make the mistake we made last time. We are here to correct that mistake.” This suggests a potential realignment of power, with Wike at its center.
Dismissing claims that his political group lacks electoral influence, Wike argued that political strength hinges on effective organization and mobilization, not on pessimistic predictions. He questioned the logic of dismissing their impact by saying, “Some people say, ‘They can only deliver two to ten per cent.’ So what is political advantage?” He assured his supporters that they would ensure complete mobilization when the time comes. And this is the part most people miss... Wike isn't just defending his past actions; he's laying the groundwork for future political maneuvers, signaling that he intends to remain a dominant force in Rivers State politics.
Responding to personal attacks questioning his qualifications, Wike defended his academic and professional achievements, characterizing such criticisms as desperate tactics employed by politically irrelevant individuals. He recounted his educational background, highlighting his law degree, Law School attendance, and his status as a Life Bencher. He also mentioned his national honor of CON (Commander of the Order of the Niger). Wike contrasted his success with his critics' repeated failures at the polls, emphasizing his own consistent track record of electoral victories. He also refuted allegations of orchestrating legal troubles for his opponents, pointing out that some of the referenced cases predated his involvement. “In 2016, he refused the EFCC and was prosecuted. Was that also me? He escaped prison because of immunity. How come now, when you have the same problem, you are saying it is me who is masterminding it?” he challenged.
Wike used the Okrika visit to express gratitude for loyalty and to reinforce his connection with his supporters, cautioning against the notion that money alone guarantees political success. He stated, “Money cannot solve all problems. Whoever is assuring you that shouting about your mandate will automatically give you victory is not correct.” He thanked the people for reclaiming their local council and pledged continued support for women and community leaders. The political implications of the visit were amplified when the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress publicly announced its defection from Governor Fubara to Wike's camp. Chairman of the congress, Senator George Sekibo, described the Fubara-Wike feud as “very unfortunate” but emphasized the Ijaw people’s gratitude to Wike for supporting Fubara’s governorship. “Please don’t look at him and think we are all ungrateful people. Ijaw people are very grateful people. That is why we abandoned him and said we will follow you. You have done so much for Ijaw people in Rivers. Whatever you say we should do is what we will do,” Sekibo declared. This public declaration of loyalty underscores the depth of the divide and the potential consequences for Governor Fubara's administration.
Local leaders also voiced their support, with Okrika Local Government Council Chairman Akuro Tobin calling Wike his political godfather and Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Stewart, praising Wike's support for women. In his concluding remarks, Wike thanked the people for supporting President Bola Tinubu and hinted at a decision regarding the 2027 elections, promising further details later. He also urged the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, to refrain from interfering in political activities. “It is not going to be business as usual. Allow us to play our game, and if there is any problem, call us to settle,” Wike advised. This statement suggests that Wike intends to maintain a firm grip on Rivers State politics, even while serving as FCT Minister.
This entire situation raises some crucial questions: Was Fubara's rise to power solely attributable to Wike's influence, or did Fubara possess his own independent political strengths? Is Wike genuinely motivated by loyalty and principle, or is he simply unwilling to relinquish his control over Rivers State politics? Could this public feud be a calculated strategy by both parties to consolidate their power bases? What implications will this power struggle have on the governance and development of Rivers State? And most importantly, whose interests are truly being served in this political drama – the people of Rivers State, or the ambitions of its leading politicians? Share your thoughts and opinions below. This is a developing story, and your insights are valuable to understanding the complex dynamics at play.
