In a significant political development, top leaders of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have thrown their weight behind Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, signaling strong support for his 2027 re-election bid. This endorsement comes amid escalating tensions between Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
APC Leadership Rallies Behind Fubara
Ajibola Basiru, the APC National Secretary, affirmed the party’s backing of Governor Fubara, emphasizing that no APC governor would be undermined. Fubara, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in December 2025, has since been recognized by APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as the party’s leader in Rivers State.
Yilwatda noted that while Fubara holds the leadership mantle, collaboration with other stakeholders in the state remains essential.
Wike Pushes Back
However, Wike has challenged Fubara’s authority, asserting that the governor’s defection does not automatically make him the APC leader in Rivers. During a media briefing, Wike accused Fubara of violating a prior peace agreement and warned against what he termed “opportunistic politics.” He also claimed continued control over the state’s political structures.
In a veiled response, Fubara dismissed the criticisms, stating, “The only reason the dog barks is when it doesn’t understand,” signaling his resolve to stay the course.
Party Insiders Weigh In
An anonymous APC national official dismissed Wike’s influence, stating that the final decision on Rivers politics rests with President Bola Tinubu and the party’s national leadership. The official emphasized that Fubara, as an incumbent APC governor, holds a strategic advantage for re-election.
Basiru echoed this sentiment, highlighting the party’s commitment to supporting all its governors. He also criticized derogatory remarks made by some party members against Fubara, calling for unity and respect within the party ranks.
Rivers APC and Elders Speak Out
Chibike Ikenga, the APC’s Rivers State Publicity Secretary, reinforced that only the President and national party leaders would determine Fubara’s political future. He acknowledged Wike’s past role in Fubara’s emergence but stressed that Wike is not a member of the APC and cannot dictate its internal affairs.
Rivers elders, including Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe and Chief Asukewe Iko-Awaji, condemned Wike’s attempts to undermine Fubara. They warned against political godfatherism and insisted that the electorate—not any individual—will decide the state’s future leadership.
Wike Vows to Block Re-election
Despite the growing support for Fubara, Wike remains defiant. During a rally in Okrika, he labeled Fubara’s governorship a “mistake” and vowed to prevent his re-election. He warned that joining the APC would not guarantee an automatic ticket and declared his readiness to oppose any candidate not aligned with his political faction.
As the 2027 elections approach, Rivers State is poised for a high-stakes political showdown, with the APC’s internal dynamics and the Fubara-Wike rivalry taking center stage.
