The Rivers State Government has refuted allegations made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is prioritizing his second-term ambition over governance. The state government insists that Fubara remains dedicated to delivering development across the state.
Wike's Accusations
During a media briefing in Abuja, Wike accused Fubara of failing to submit the state budget to the Rivers State House of Assembly, claiming the governor is distracted by political pursuits. 'The governor is yet to submit his budget to the House of Assembly, but he is busy pursuing his second-term ambition,' Wike stated. He warned that the delay could disrupt government activities and essential services.
Wike also referenced President Bola Tinubu's intervention in impeachment proceedings against Fubara, noting that the governor had agreed to prioritize peace. 'President Tinubu intervened in the impeachment proceedings against Fubara, and the governor said, I'm ready for peace. I'm no longer interested in contesting for governor. I will not do it. Now, having withdrawn the impeachment, you're playing smart on what you agreed before the President,' Wike added.
State Government's Response
The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Onwuka Nzeshi, dismissed the allegations, emphasizing Fubara's focus on governance. He highlighted recent inspections of critical infrastructure projects, including the Creek Road Market and the Commissioners' Quarters. 'In the past few months, Siminalayi Fubara has been actively inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects. Just last week, he inspected the Creek Road Market and the Commissioners' Quarters under construction. These projects are of great importance to him, and he is determined to see them completed and put to use promptly,' Nzeshi said.
Nzeshi noted that the administration inherited 12 major road projects, with nine achieving over 70 percent completion, such as the Trans-Kalabari Road Phase 1 and the Port Harcourt Ring Road. 'What further evidence is required to demonstrate that the governor is working and fully committed to delivering on the mandate given to him by the people of Rivers State?' he asked.
Political Tensions
The exchange underscores tensions between Wike and Fubara, despite a peace deal brokered by President Tinubu. The Rivers State House of Assembly has not convened for an extended period, amid speculation that the delay is linked to efforts to avoid screening new commissioner nominees submitted by the governor.
Meanwhile, Wike clarified that he has not endorsed any candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State, stating that any endorsement would require a joint coalition of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
