FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly blamed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for a critical misstep at the onset of his administration – the decision to construct an independent political structure shortly after being sworn in on May 29, 2023, instead of consolidating the existing framework that secured his electoral victory.
Wike aired his grievances during a special media chat held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Saturday, August 1. The former governor insisted that Fubara’s early move signalled disregard for both the party machinery and the political leaders who worked to bring him into office, a decision that would inevitably heighten tensions within the state’s political landscape.
Wike’s Vision for Rivers State
The current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reminded his audience that he left office having laid what he described as a “solid foundation” for sustainable development. He expressed a wish that Fubara would build on that groundwork so Rivers State could finally narrow the development gap it shares with Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.
Among the legacy projects singled out by Wike was the multi-billion naira Port Harcourt Ring Road, an ambitious infrastructure project linking several local government areas and already under construction before his tenure ended. He also cited the 12 flyovers that were built and commissioned during his time as governor, noting that they significantly transformed the skyline and mobility within the Port Harcourt metropolis and its environs.
According to Wike, Fubara’s decision to chart his own political course early in his tenure only widened the development gap he had hoped to bridge between Rivers and Lagos. The implication, he suggested, is that governance took a backseat to political manoeuvring at a time when focus was needed most.
Who Wike Blames for the Crisis
The political crisis rocking Rivers State did not emerge from a vacuum. Wike laid responsibility squarely at the feet of certain advisers whom Fubara began to listen to shortly after assuming office. These individuals, according to the FCT Minister, had a personal interest in seeing the governor fail – with some of them reportedly eyeing the very position Wike now occupies as Minister of the FCT.
It was these same people, Wike argued, who encouraged Fubara to pick a fight with him, turning what could have been a collaborative relationship into a simmering political feud. “I never lost focus as governor, and that is why I achieved what I achieved,” Wike declared, contrasting his own record with what he described as Fubara’s self-inflicted distraction from governance.
The media chat provided a platform for Wike to address long-running speculations about the breakdown of his relationship with his successor. He maintained that his intentions had always been focused on ensuring Rivers State remained on a stable development trajectory, not on engaging in personal battles that detract from the people’s welfare.
Wike Dismisses Money Rumours
Addressing the persistent rumour that he had demanded money from Governor Fubara as part of a political bargain, Wike flatly denied the allegation, describing it as illogical and unfounded. He argued that such rumours often surface during political crises, but the claims against him hold no water given his current standing.
The FCT Minister reasoned that his position as head of the Federal Capital Territory comes with oversight of a budget comparable to that of a state governor, making it nonsensical for him to solicit funds from Fubara for any reason. His denial is expected to quash some of the speculation that has circulated in political circles, though the broader rift remains unresolved.
A Call for Stability in Rivers
Wike reiterated that his only desire for Rivers State is stability. He expressed hope that Governor Fubara would eventually stabilise the state’s political environment and build on the achievements left behind, rather than continue on a path that leads to needless confrontation.
“The foundation is there. The projects speak for themselves. What remains is for the current administration to focus on delivering more development, not political battles,” Wike was quoted as saying during the event. He emphasised that he has no personal grudge against Fubara, but rather a concern for the future of Rivers State and its people.
As the political crisis in Rivers State continues to attract national attention, the FCT Minister’s latest remarks are expected to shape discourse among party members, government officials, and citizens who are monitoring the unfolding developments. All eyes will be on how Governor Fubara responds to these accusations in the coming days.
