By: Joy Musa
In a surprising political shift, five lawmakers from the Rivers State House of Assembly, all of whom were staunch supporters of former Governor Nyesom Wike, have announced their defection from Wike camp to Fubara fold. This move, coming just after supreme court judgement, has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape, prompting speculation over the stability of Pro Wike Lawmakers in the state.
The five defectors—whose names have yet to be disclosed—were part of the “Pro-Wike” faction that had been instrumental in maintaining the former governor’s hold on the state. Their departure marks a significant blow to the Wike influence in Rivers State and has left many questioning what this means for Fubara’s eight-year tenure, which some are now humorously referring to as a “celebration of stability.”
Political analysts believe that the defections could further weaken the Wike influence in the state, giving Governor Fubara the upper hand in advancing his agenda. However, some critics have raised concerns about whether the move could spark a larger exodus of lawmakers, potentially altering the dynamics within the Rivers State House of Assembly.
For now, Governor Fubara, who assumed office in May 2023, is likely to take the defections to his camp in stride, using the shift in political power to consolidate his position. While celebrations of the governor’s tenure remain speculative, there is no doubt that these recent events could mark a new chapter in Rivers State politics.
In an ironic twist, social media has exploded with memes and jokes about the defections, with many joking that the “thunder” of the lawmakers’ exit will reverberate for years to come. “Thunder fire ultimatum,” one commentator quipped, referencing the earlier political tensions within the state. Whether the defections will indeed lead to a smoother reign for Fubara remains to be seen, but the political waters are undoubtedly more turbulent than ever.
As the state watches these developments unfold, it remains to be seen whether Governor Fubara’s tenure will be marked by the kind of stability he hopes for, or if these defections are only the beginning of larger political shifts in the coming years.
