By John Umeh
Amid mounting political tensions in Rivers State and widespread reports of a fractured relationship between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Wike has finally addressed the controversy, firmly stating that he is “not at war with Fubara” and still considers him “his boy.” His remarks, which came during a public event in Abuja, aimed to douse the flames of political speculation and reaffirm his enduring influence on Rivers State politics.
Wike, a former two-term governor of Rivers State, played a pivotal role in Fubara’s emergence as governor under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, recent political developments, including clashes within the state’s House of Assembly and perceived shifts in loyalties, have raised concerns of a power struggle between the two men.
“Fubara Is Not My Problem” – Wike Insists
In his public address, Wike was emphatic in distancing himself from any accusations of personal animosity toward the Rivers State governor. He described reports of a rift as “deliberate mischief” orchestrated by political opportunists and misinformed commentators.
“Fubara is not my problem. He’s my boy, and I brought him into this system. If I wanted to fight him, everyone would know,” Wike said. “What we are seeing is the work of those who want to destroy the legacy we built in Rivers State.”
Wike’s assertion appears to challenge the dominant narrative that a cold war is brewing between a political godfather and his successor. Instead, he suggested that the real issues stem from actors outside their circle who are fanning the flames for personal gain.
Background of the Political Tensions
Tensions between Fubara and perceived loyalists of Wike have been simmering for months. Several lawmakers in the state House of Assembly, widely considered allies of Wike, have reportedly opposed some of the governor’s recent decisions, leading to legislative stand-offs. At the same time, whispers of power tussles within the PDP at the state level have fueled speculation that Wike and Fubara no longer see eye to eye.
These developments have led to a polarized political climate in the state, with some accusing Wike of attempting to control the government from Abuja while Fubara seeks to assert his independence as governor. However, Wike has categorically denied meddling in the affairs of the current administration beyond his advisory role.
“I’m not interested in who controls what. What I care about is that the state continues on the path of progress. If there are issues, we handle them like a family — not in the media,” Wike said.
A Godfather-Successor Dynamic?
The relationship between Wike and Fubara has drawn comparisons to other godfather-successor clashes in Nigerian politics. Often, such relationships begin with mutual respect and political alignment but later become strained when the successor attempts to assert autonomy. Wike, however, insists that he is not threatened by Fubara’s rising profile and that he supports the governor’s efforts to lead the state.
“Leadership is not about conflict. It’s about responsibility,” Wike noted. “Sim is doing his best, and I commend him for it. But let no one mistake maturity for weakness. We all must protect our party and our legacy.”
He also cautioned against allowing external forces to interfere in the party’s internal matters, stating that PDP leaders and stakeholders must act with wisdom and unity to ensure continued stability in Rivers State.
Fubara’s Response and Public Perception
Governor Fubara has largely remained diplomatic in his public statements, choosing not to directly confront the rumors or engage in any war of words. In recent appearances, he has emphasized peace, service delivery, and his commitment to governance. However, some analysts believe that his silence is strategic, as he seeks to consolidate his base without appearing to openly rebel against Wike.
Among the public, perceptions are mixed. Some believe Wike is genuinely trying to maintain peace, while others see his comments as a thinly veiled assertion of control. Regardless, the tension has sparked national conversations about political mentorship, succession, and the fine line between influence and interference.
Unity, Not Division
In his final remarks, Wike urged party members and the people of Rivers State to focus on unity rather than division. He emphasized that his relationship with Fubara remains intact and that the rumors of a fallout are being blown out of proportion for political mileage.
“We must not allow enemies of progress to infiltrate our ranks,” Wike said. “Fubara is still my boy. We are working together in our own way, even if it’s not for public show.”
This public declaration may not immediately erase the underlying tension or resolve the power dynamics at play in Rivers State, but it serves as a significant statement of intent. Whether Wike’s words will translate into actual political harmony remains to be seen, but for now, the former governor is making it clear: the Rivers PDP family is not at war.
Wike’s statement, “Fubara is my boy,” reflects both loyalty and a subtle assertion of political hierarchy. While he denies any open conflict with his successor, the unfolding events in Rivers State suggest a more complex narrative. For now, the people of Rivers and political observers nationwide will continue to watch closely, as the drama within one of Nigeria’s most politically strategic states plays out.
