APC Explains Strategic Delay in Welcoming Rivers Governor Fubara
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has provided a detailed explanation for the delay in formally welcoming Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara into the party, framing it as a strategic move to respect regional and religious sensitivities ahead of Ramadan. This development occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, fueled by Governor Fubara's fallout with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and the intense rival factions positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
Strategic Timing and Northern Sensitivities
Speaking during an interview on TVC on Sunday, APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, emphasized that the delay was part of a broader strategy to manage regional dynamics, particularly in northern states. He noted that the party is prioritizing receptions in the north before Ramadan, a significant religious period for Muslims. "We have Kano we're preparing for. When you're dealing in politics, we opted to clear the north first because Ramadan is coming and most of the people in the north are Muslims," Yilwatda stated. He added that this decision was taken to respect communities in the north that are sensitive to the religious period, ensuring that political activities do not clash with their observances.
Clarification on Fubara's Authority Within APC
Yilwatda strongly dismissed any suggestions that the delay was related to Governor Fubara's authority or leadership within the APC. "So these are strategies and also acknowledge the sensitivity of each community. That's the reason we took that decision. It has nothing to do with Siminalayi Fubara not having authority," he explained. When questioned about claims that Fubara appeared unable to assert control as the APC leader in Rivers State, Yilwatda challenged the interviewer to provide evidence of any internal complaints, asking, "Is that what you're told? I'm the national chairman. Who complained to you? What petition? I want you to give me one petition. Has he complained to you?" This response underscores the party's stance on maintaining internal unity and support for Fubara.
Background of Rivers State Political Crisis
The debate over Fubara's leadership is set against the long-running political crisis in Rivers State. His relationship with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, deteriorated after a 2023 power struggle, which prompted President Bola Tinubu to declare a six-month state of emergency in the state. Governor Fubara's defection to the APC on December 9, 2025, was widely viewed as part of his bid for a second term in 2027 and an effort to consolidate support following his fallout with Wike. However, Wike, who remains influential in Rivers politics despite not being an APC member, has argued that grassroots control and party structures—which his supporters still occupy—determine leadership.
This dynamic has fueled a broader political crisis, with rival factions in both the APC and PDP engaging in impeachment moves, negotiations, and efforts to stabilize the situation ahead of the 2027 elections. Yilwatda also addressed references to comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who spoke of Rivers politicians uniting under President Tinubu's 'Renewed Hope' agenda. Yilwatda clarified that such support groups are separate from the APC's official structures, stating, "Support groups are separate from party activities. Is it under the office of the chairman of the party?"
Deepening PDP Crisis
In related developments, the crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified. Governors elected on the PDP platform recently rejected moves by a caretaker committee backed by Nyesom Wike. They argued that this faction lacks the constitutional authority to reschedule the party's national convention or dissolve zonal structures, as reported by PUNCH. This rejection highlights the ongoing internal strife within the PDP, further complicating the political landscape in Rivers State and beyond.
Overall, the APC's explanation for the delay in welcoming Governor Fubara reflects a careful balancing act between political strategy and cultural sensitivity, set against a backdrop of intense political maneuvering and crisis in Rivers State.
