Tinubu's Aide Supports APC Chairman's Position on Rivers Leadership
President Bola Tinubu's special adviser on policy communication, Daniel Bwala, has publicly stated that his position on the escalating political crisis in Rivers state aligns perfectly with that of the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nantawe Yilwatda. This significant declaration comes at a critical moment when the Rivers State House of Assembly is actively pursuing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reigniting the bitter political feud between the governor and his former political mentor, Nyesom Wike.
APC National Chairman's Declaration on State Leadership
In a recent interview, Professor Yilwatda explicitly declared Governor Fubara as the legitimate leader of the APC in Rivers State. The national chairman emphasized that the party traditionally accords state-level leadership to sitting governors, urging them to embrace inclusive governance while avoiding actions that might disenfranchise other party members. Yilwatda further advised that for Fubara to secure the party's ticket in the upcoming 2027 governorship election, he must collaborate effectively with all relevant stakeholders across the political spectrum.
Bwala's Reinforcement of Democratic Principles
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television on Thursday, January 22, Bwala reinforced the APC chairman's position, stating that Governor Fubara should be permitted to exercise his leadership role without undue interference. The presidential aide clarified that Wike's political influence, despite his current position as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), remains confined to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and does not extend to APC internal affairs.
Bwala elaborated that the APC national chairman's declaration reflects core democratic principles and aligns with the party's established internal regulations. He emphasized President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to proper party procedures, demonstrating a profound respect for the rule of law and due process in all governmental and political matters.
Addressing Concerns Over Wike's Federal Influence
The presidential aide acknowledged growing concerns regarding Wike's perceived influence within the federal government apparatus, assuring that no political appointment would be allowed to compromise Nigeria's national interests. Bwala addressed complaints about Wike enjoying certain privileges as a cabinet member, stating clearly in his remarks: “Wike has been adequately compensated. The president believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of the interests of Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu gives latitude, but once you cross the line, you will know.”
Intensifying Impeachment Proceedings Against Fubara
This political development unfolds against the backdrop of the third impeachment attempt against Governor Fubara by the Rivers State House of Assembly, where the majority of lawmakers maintain loyalty to Wike. The governor has officially received an impeachment notice, and the state's chief justice has been formally requested to constitute an investigative committee to examine allegations of gross misconduct leveled against him.
Although President Tinubu's previous intervention temporarily halted earlier impeachment efforts, assembly members have recently vowed that nothing will obstruct the current impeachment process, which commenced just days ago. This persistent political maneuvering highlights the deepening rift within Rivers State's political landscape.
Police Investigation into Alleged Assassination Plot
In a related development, Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara's political ally, Tammy Danagogo, has been summoned by police authorities concerning an alleged assassination plot targeting FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. This investigation follows the circulation of a leaked telephone conversation purportedly involving Danagogo and a Port Harcourt-based individual, discussing the potential hiring of an Israeli national for the alleged assassination attempt.
The police invitation has further intensified the already volatile political atmosphere in Rivers State, generating widespread reactions across social media platforms as tensions between Governor Fubara and Minister Wike continue to escalate dramatically.
