Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has cautioned Senator Ajibola Basiru against interfering in Rivers State politics. The warning follows Senator Basiru’s public expression of support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike delivered his remarks to supporters in Oyigbo Local Government Area, declaring the state “off‑limits” to external political meddling.
Wike said Basiru’s comments could be misinterpreted as taking the support of Rivers leaders for President Bola Tinubu for granted. He urged the senator to be careful with his statements, warning, “Don’t take our support for Mr President for granted. You have to be very careful with the statements you make.” The minister labeled Rivers State a “no‑go area” for political interference and warned that anyone who attempts it should be prepared for the consequences. He added, “When Mr President comes back, when I see the Minister of Blue Economy, I will tell them to tell him – if you interfere in Rivers State, you will face the consequences.”
Wike also accused unnamed political figures of making unnecessary comments about Rivers politics, advising them to focus on their own affairs. His warning is significant amid ongoing political tensions in the state, where various actors vie for influence. By emphasizing respect for the state’s political boundaries, Wike underscored the sensitivity of the local landscape.
The situation remains fluid, and it remains to be seen how Senator Basiru and other external actors will respond to Wike’s caution. In the broader context of Nigerian politics, the minister’s admonition highlights the importance of respecting state boundaries and the potential repercussions of outside interference, with likely implications for the political dynamics in Rivers State and beyond.
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