The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has warned of further political troubles for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as the power tussle in the state escalates.
Wike made the statement during a Thanksgiving Service and Civic Reception held in his honor at Abalama, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, despite strong opposition from community leaders and residents.
Protests and Community Backlash
His visit was met with fierce protests, as angry residents blocked roads and carried placards rejecting his presence. Viral videos on social media showed demonstrators—including women and youths—demanding that Wike stay away from their community.
In a further show of discontent, the Amayanabo of Abalama, King Dr. A. B. Big Tom Tom JP, disassociated the community from the event. In a letter to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, he raised security concerns and criticized the lack of official communication about the program.
One of the key grievances against Wike was his past remark that the Kalabari people are a minority in Rivers State, a statement many residents found disrespectful.
Supreme Court Ruling and Political Stalemate
The political crisis in Rivers State took a new turn after the Supreme Court halted federal allocations to the state until Governor Fubara presents the 2025 budget to the State House of Assembly.
However, the Assembly—led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, a strong Wike ally—has adjourned indefinitely, preventing Fubara from presenting the budget.
Wike Taunts Fubara’s Leadership
Speaking at the event, Wike blamed Fubara’s advisers for his political troubles and openly mocked his leadership.
“You surrounded yourself with people who wanted to be governor, whom I said ‘no, these people don’t mean well for Rivers State.’ They are the ones advising you. Do you think you will succeed? They will give bad advice, and look at what bad advice is doing to you. You are already down 2-0, and there’s more to come.”
As the political standoff intensifies, analysts warn that the Wike-Fubara power struggle could have serious implications for governance and stability in Rivers State.
