A political strategist, Baba Yusuf, has accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of attempting to remove the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and replace him with a loyalist. This allegation was made during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program.
According to Yusuf, Wike’s actions are despite interventions by President Bola Tinubu. The situation has escalated to the point where the President has suspended democratic institutions in Rivers State for six months. Yusuf believes this is a sign of an intense power struggle.
The strategist pointed out that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, provides for the Speaker of the State Assembly to take over as acting governor if the governor and deputy governor are impeached. In this case, Martin Amaewhule, the Speaker of the Rivers State Assembly, would assume the role. Yusuf claims that Wike’s goal is to impeach Fubara and install his own loyalist in the governor’s office.
The political tensions in Rivers State have been ongoing, with various factions vying for power. The suspension of democratic institutions in the state has significant implications for the political landscape. The situation is being closely watched, as it may have far-reaching consequences for the state and its citizens.
The accusation against Wike highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where power struggles and alliances can shift rapidly. The role of the President and other key stakeholders in resolving the crisis will be crucial in determining the outcome. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the political landscape in Rivers State will be affected and what the implications will be for the country as a whole.
