Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reignited the political feud in Rivers State, declaring that the same political actors Governor Siminalayi Fubara now dismisses as “barking dogs” were crucial to his emergence as governor.
Wike made the remarks on Saturday during a thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area, a gathering that underscored the deepening rift within the state’s political class. The event took a dramatic turn when the Rivers State chapter of the Ijaw People’s Congress publicly withdrew its support for Governor Fubara and announced its alignment with Wike.
Responding to comments attributed to the governor, Wike, who previously served as Rivers State governor, said it was ironic that those once instrumental to Fubara’s rise were now being derided.
“That same dog barked and helped make you governor,” Wike said, stressing that political support often goes unrecognised once power is secured.
He told the crowd that political loyalties in Rivers State were shifting rapidly, with former rivals closing ranks and old divisions fading.
“We had our differences before, but today everyone is working together. There are no longer no-go areas in our politics,” he said, adding that the focus was no longer party lines but shared political purpose.
Wike dismissed claims that his political base lacked strength, arguing that success in elections depended on structure, organisation, and grassroots mobilisation rather than speculative percentages.
“Politics is not about guessing numbers; it is about mobilisation,” he said.
The FCT minister also used the opportunity to respond to personal attacks, defending his academic background and political record. He described his critics as serial election losers with little influence at the grassroots.
“I studied Law, went to Law School, and today I am a Life Bencher. I have contested and won major elections,” he said, rejecting claims that he was behind legal troubles facing some political opponents.
On his visit to Okrika, Wike said it was meant to appreciate loyal supporters and reaffirm longstanding political ties, while cautioning that financial power alone could not secure victory at the polls.
“Money cannot solve all problems in politics,” he warned.
The political significance of the visit was heightened by the statement from the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress. Its chairman, Senator George Sekibo, described the dispute between Wike and Fubara as unfortunate but said the Ijaw people would stand by Wike out of gratitude for his support over the years.
“We are grateful people. That is why we have decided to follow you,” Sekibo said, pledging continued support for Wike and President Bola Tinubu.
Other speakers at the event, including Okrika Local Government Chairman Akuro Tobin and Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly Linda Stewart, praised Wike’s influence and political mentorship, particularly his support for women and youth.
In his closing remarks, Wike thanked the people for backing President Tinubu and urged them to support leaders of proven character. He also paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, commending him for promoting unity and advising traditional rulers to steer clear of partisan politics.
Wike hinted that key decisions regarding the 2027 elections had already been taken, saying details would be revealed at the appropriate time.
Wike Takes Swipe at Fubara, Says Critics Once Paved His Way to Power
