Fresh indications of a deepening political disagreement have surfaced between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. The former governor has announced that he and his political allies will fully re-engage in political activities starting January 2026.
A Return to the Political Arena
Wike made the declaration on Saturday, December 27, 2025, while addressing Rivers State stakeholders and supporters in Ahoada East. The event followed the annual thanksgiving ceremony of former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche.
In his remarks, Wike strongly emphasized the sanctity of political agreements. "You know me; I believe that an agreement is an agreement," he stated. "If there is something you cannot do, do not say it. Nobody can use us to say yes today and turn around tomorrow." This comment was widely interpreted as a veiled reference to the perceived drift from a peace deal previously brokered between his camp and that of Governor Fubara.
Questioning Fair-Weather Supporters
The FCT minister took a pointed jab at political actors who have recently become vocal in their support for President Bola Tinubu. He questioned where these voices were during the challenging periods of the 2023 general elections.
"When it was difficult for people to say 'on your mandate we stand,' we stood firm," Wike asserted. "Today, that mandate is strong in Rivers State because of you. Those you now see shouting the slogan could not sing it when it mattered most."
He recalled that many found it difficult to openly campaign for Tinubu when the political climate was uncertain. "We took that decision and stood firm," he said, assuring his supporters that their loyalty and sacrifices were noted and would not be in vain.
Attacks and Accusations of Political Profiteering
Wike described himself as one of Nigeria's most criticized politicians, second only to President Tinubu. He attributed this criticism to his unwavering stance on honoring agreements.
In a sarcastic tone, he accused some local politicians of using attacks against him as a shortcut to financial or political gain. "One thing you should know about Nigerian politics is that some people believe that if you say 'we will deal with Wike,' money will come. Just pronounce that word and something will come down," he mocked.
Despite the apparent tensions, Wike urged his supporters to remain calm and resolute, insisting that "nothing is happening" and that all matters would be addressed comprehensively at the appropriate time.
Earlier at the event, Chibudom Nwuche praised Wike for his developmental impact on the Ekpeye Kingdom, specifically for elevating traditional stools. "For the first time, Ekpeye has seven first-class stools. Before now, we had only one," Nwuche said, adding that "nobody who follows Wike can say he has not been positively impacted."
The stage is now set for a significant escalation in political activities in Rivers State and beyond come January 2026, as Wike's camp prepares to resume what he terms "full politics."
