By our reporter
Former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declined to endorse Governor Siminalayi Fubara for a second term, cautioning that premature political discussions could ignite avoidable tensions in the state.
Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television, Wike addressed growing speculation about his support for Fubara’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race. The former governor urged political actors and stakeholders to prioritize governance and development over electoral ambitions at this stage.
Let’s not bring up what can cause unnecessary crisis, Wike said. “We still have two years to go. Let us focus on helping the governor to deliver good governance. Rivers people want development, not second-term debates.”
Wike, who governed the state from 2015 to 2023, emphasized that his current focus is on ensuring peace, stability, and continuity in Rivers State, rather than involving himself in the 2027 political calculations.
Reacting to allegations that he continues to influence appointments within the Rivers State Executive Council, Wike strongly denied any behind-the-scenes interference. He dismissed claims that he dictates to Governor Fubara or imposes candidates in government positions.
I have no candidate, he stated firmly. Even if the governor comes to me for advice, I’ll only tell him not to destroy what we’ve built together. My only interest is for the state to move forward.
The relationship between Wike and Governor Fubara has come under intense public scrutiny in recent months, with rumors of a power struggle and internal party rifts fueling political tension in the state.
Wike also commented on the ongoing dispute surrounding the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State. He downplayed the controversy, describing it as the work of political detractors aiming to destabilize the party and the state.
There was never a disagreement, he said. Those who want to cause crisis are the ones bringing up who is leader or not. Leadership is not by shouting. The governor handles the administration, but political leadership is a different matter.
His remarks come amid reports of factional divisions within the PDP in Rivers, with some party members openly questioning who holds political authority the sitting governor or the influential former one.
Wike’s comments suggest a careful balancing act: reaffirming his influence without directly challenging the authority of his successor. As Rivers State continues to navigate this complex political terrain, many observers believe the tension between both camps could define the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
For now, Wike appears to be sending a clear message development must come first, and political ambitions should wait.
