Introduction to the Political Crisis in Rivers State
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has shared his thoughts on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which has been a subject of discussion since late 2023. The crisis is centered around a power struggle between the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Fayose’s Views on the Crisis
Fayose made his comments during an interview on ARISE Television, where he reacted to a question about the possibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu removing Wike as FCT Minister to favour Fubara. According to Fayose, President Tinubu is unlikely to take such action, stating, "But let me say this to Nigerians: the Asiwaju that I know will not get rid of a Wike for a Fubara. Wike came from Rivers to give support to President Tinubu." He argued that Wike’s political relevance to the president is based on his performance as FCT Minister and his ability to deliver electoral outcomes for the All Progressives Congress.
Wike’s Performance and Influence
Fayose cited the recent local government elections in Rivers State, which the APC won due to Wike’s influence, and predicted similar outcomes for upcoming local elections in Abuja. He said, "Wike is in Abuja performing; we’ve never had it so good in Abuja. Even a blind man can’t deny that." This, according to Fayose, is a clear indication of Wike’s value to President Tinubu and the APC.
Fubara’s Actions and Fayose’s Critique
Fayose also addressed reports that Fubara had sought intervention from President Tinubu, suggesting that the governor’s action reflected political misjudgement. He stated, "If Governor Fubara has gone to meet the President (in France), then it shows he needs help. When you don’t praise God, when you refuse to humble yourself and look for peace, you’ll just be running helter-skelter. What he’s looking for is inside his pocket."
The State of the Opposition PDP
On internal challenges facing the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Fayose dismissed claims that Tinubu was responsible, describing the party as weakened by internal divisions. He said, "The PDP caused themselves an insurrection. It’s a house that is divided against itself, and the nature of man is survival of the fittest."
Wike’s Response to Calls for His Removal
Meanwhile, Wike has addressed calls for his removal by stating that such decisions remain the prerogative of the president. Speaking on Sunday during a “thank you” visit to Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, he said: "Don’t bother about people who say ‘sack him.’ If my appointor believes that I cannot offer anything again, he has the right; it is not in your place to tell him what to do." Wike added that the president recognises his political value and that he remains committed to supporting Tinubu’s political objectives.
Impeachment Proceedings Against Fubara
The statements from Fayose and Wike come as impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara advance in the Rivers State House of Assembly, with the House citing allegations of misconduct, including extra-budgetary spending and defiance of a Supreme Court ruling. Reports suggest that while the House denies Wike’s involvement, the president has reportedly intervened in the dispute.
Conclusion
The political crisis in Rivers State continues to unfold, with key players like Fayose and Wike sharing their perspectives on the situation. As the impeachment proceedings against Fubara progress, it remains to be seen how the situation will resolve and what implications it will have for the state and national political landscape.
FAQs
- Q: Who is at the center of the political crisis in Rivers State?
A: The crisis is centered around a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. - Q: What is Fayose’s view on the possibility of President Tinubu removing Wike as FCT Minister?
A: Fayose believes that President Tinubu is unlikely to remove Wike to favour Fubara, citing Wike’s political relevance and performance as FCT Minister. - Q: What is Wike’s response to calls for his removal?
A: Wike states that the decision to remove him is the prerogative of the president and that he remains committed to supporting Tinubu’s political objectives.
