Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, announced that he will not recommend any commissioners to Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State. The statement comes as Governor Fubara prepares to resume office after a six‑month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu in March. The emergency rule was triggered by a prolonged political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, which many observers linked to Wike’s alleged imposition of political appointees on the governor.
In an interview on Channels Television’s *Politics Today*, Wike stressed that he has no intention of imposing his preferences on the governor and will give him a free hand to manage the affairs of Rivers State. He explained that suggesting commissioners would constitute an imposition and that he has no candidates to propose. Wike pledged to allow Governor Fubara to govern as he sees fit, even if the governor seeks his input.
Wike also reflected on his efforts to maintain stability in the state, noting that he left Rivers in a competitive position relative to other states such as Lagos. He advised Governor Fubara to build on this foundation and move forward without discarding the progress already made.
The minister clarified that no law requires the governor to resume work immediately after the emergency rule ends, and Governor Fubara’s schedule and plans remain unknown. Although the governor was expected to return to office on Thursday, he did not appear at Government House, dispersing a large crowd that had gathered in anticipation.
Wike’s assurance of a free hand for the governor signals a potential shift in their working relationship, allowing Governor Fubara to take the reins and make decisions for the state’s development. As Rivers State transitions out of emergency rule, attention will focus on how Governor Fubara navigates the state’s affairs and whether Wike’s pledge of non‑interference will hold, shaping the state’s future trajectory.
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