The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced a split from Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, ahead of the 2027 elections. Wike stated that he would personally support a candidate he trusts to succeed Fubara, citing the need to avoid repeating past mistakes. The former Rivers State governor made these remarks while addressing supporters in Ahoada Local Government Area over the weekend.
According to Wike, previous agreements with Governor Fubara were allegedly violated, rendering further cooperation impossible. He emphasized that no individual would dictate political decisions to him in Rivers State, and that he would not make the same mistakes as in the 2023 election. Wike also dismissed the notion that recent political slogans and rallies would automatically secure an electoral ticket for any aspirant.
This development comes after Governor Fubara’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Wike clarified that his public support for President Bola Tinubu does not necessarily translate to automatic backing for Fubara’s re-election bid. He reiterated his support for Tinubu, citing the president’s goodwill towards Rivers State, including his appointment as FCT minister.
Wike maintained that political decisions in Rivers State would be guided by trust and interests. He emphasized that shouting slogans or rallying support would not guarantee an automatic ticket, stating that “politics is about interest.” Wike pledged to support a candidate he can rely on, someone he can “sleep with his eyes closed” with.
The implications of Wike’s announcement are significant, as it may impact the political landscape of Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections. With Wike’s influence in the state, his decision to support a different candidate could potentially shape the outcome of the election. As the political scene continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Governor Fubara and other stakeholders will respond to Wike’s declaration.
