The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday lashed out at Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, insisting that the same political forces now being ridiculed were instrumental to Fubara’s rise to power.
Speaking during a thank‑you visit to Okrika Local Government Area, Wike declared that political tensions in Rivers were easing and giving way to unity.
“That same dog barked and helped make you governor,” Wike said, reacting to remarks attributed to Fubara. “This dog that is barking now was barking when people did not even know who the person was. Fate has made it bark again. I wish you good luck.”
The former Rivers governor told supporters that the era of exclusion in the state was over.
“We used to have problems, but today everyone is working together. That means there is no longer any no-go area,” he said.
Wike stressed that emerging alignments cut across party lines. “We are not talking about party here; we are talking about the real Hope family. All of us have decided to work together. We will not repeat the mistakes of the past.”
He dismissed claims that his camp lacked electoral strength. “Some people say we can only deliver two to ten per cent. So what is political advantage? We will do all we can to deliver total support.”
Ijaw Congress Dumps Fubara
In a dramatic shift, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress announced it was withdrawing support from Governor Fubara and pledging allegiance to Wike.
Chairman Senator George Sekibo told the gathering: “Ijaw people are very grateful people. That is why we have abandoned him and decided to follow you. You have done so much for Ijaw people in Rivers. Whatever you say we should do is what we will do.”
Sekibo assured Wike of loyalty to both him and President Bola Tinubu. “We will not leave you because you have always been there for us,” he added.
Local leaders echoed the sentiment. Okrika Council Chairman Akuro Tobin described Wike as his “political godfather,” while Deputy Speaker of the Rivers Assembly Linda Stewart praised his record on women’s empowerment as “unprecedented.”
Meanwhile, former Obio‑Akpor Council Chairman Chijioke Ihunwo, an ally of Fubara, denied reports that he was preparing to defect.
“Reports alleging I will resign from the Fubara Group are false. I have not resigned and have no such plans. I remain firmly with Gov. Siminalayi Fubara. Disregard the fake news,” Ihunwo wrote on X.
In contrast, factional PDP Chairman Dr. Nname Ewor formally merged his group into the caretaker committee backed by Wike, accusing Fubara of being “untrustworthy” in handling the crisis.
Rivers Approves ₦1.8trn Budget
Despite the political turmoil, the Rivers State Executive Council on Friday approved a ₦1.8 trillion budget for 2026.
Special Adviser on Economic Matters Professor Peter Medee said the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development” would focus on completing ongoing projects and accelerating development.
“The administration remains focused on achieving its development goals for Rivers people despite prevailing challenges,” Medee told journalists.
The budget, valued at ₦1,854,248,734,475.76, was presented alongside senior officials including Permanent Secretary Dr. Honour Sirawoo and Special Adviser on Finance Frank Fubara.
The day’s events show the deepening political realignments in Rivers State, with Wike consolidating support while Governor Fubara faces mounting opposition from within his base.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
