Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has slammed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, calling him a “traitor” who can’t defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) without his approval. This comes as the Rivers State House of Assembly initiates proceedings against Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, over alleged gross misconduct.
*The Squabbles Between Wike and PDP*
Wike’s battles with the PDP have been ongoing, with his camp backing the proceedings, while the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has adopted a cautious stance. The feud is rooted in a power struggle for control of the PDP structure in Rivers State, with Wike accusing Fubara of reneging on a peace agreement brokered by President Bola Tinubu. Wike had reportedly backed Fubara’s gubernatorial bid in 2023, expecting loyalty in return, but Fubara’s recent moves have soured their relationship.
*Squabbles with APC Leadership*
Wike’s recent comments have also sparked tension with APC leadership, with some officials calling for him to resign as minister due to his interference in Rivers State politics. The APC National Secretary has urged Wike to refrain from interfering in party matters, while some governors have backed Fubara’s re-election bid, angering Wike. Sources close to Wike suggest he’s unhappy with the APC’s handling of his loyalists’ defections and wants guarantees of support for his preferred candidates.
*The Gang Up Against Wike*
Virtually all political stakeholders in Nigeria seem to be gading up against Wike, from Peter Obi to Rotimi Amaechi, Bala Mohammed, Peter Odili, Sim Fubara, and even Sen John Mbata. This feud is getting messy, with Wike being called a “traitor” and accusations flying left and right. The opposition is growing, with some saying Wike’s grip on power is slipping, and Fubara gaining momentum and presidential support.
*The Agreement on Fubara’s Tenure*
Sources reveal an agreement between Wike and Fubara, where Fubara wouldn’t contest for a second term. Wike publicly denied the agreement, citing Fubara’s defection to APC. The agreement’s conditions included Fubara not seeking re-election, withdrawing court cases, recognizing the Amaewhule-led Assembly, and restoring salaries and benefits for Assembly members and staff.
*Allegations Against Fubara*
The Rivers State House of Assembly has listed seven allegations against Fubara, including demolition of the Assembly complex, extra-budgetary spending, withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, refusal to comply with Supreme Court rulings on financial autonomy, and seizing salaries and allowances of lawmakers. Fubara’s supporters claim the allegations are politically motivated, while Wike’s camp insists they’re necessary to address governance issues.
President Tinubu has intervened, summoning Wike for a meeting to discuss the crisis, amidst reports of a fresh impeachment plot against Fubara. The situation remains tense, with Port Harcourt politics on edge.
