Governor Fubara Breaks Silence on Rift with Wike, Reveals Reason For Their Fight
By Wisdom Tide
October 2024
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has provided clarity on the ongoing tensions between him and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. In a recent interview on Channels TV's Politics Today, Fubara disclosed that the dispute revolves around issues of power and control within Rivers State.
Power Struggle at the Heart of the Conflict
Governor Fubara and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike have been at odds since Fubara took office in 2023. Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu and other key political figures to mediate, the conflict has persisted, with both leaders standing firm on their positions. Speaking publicly for the first time about the issue, Fubara acknowledged that their disagreement is deeply rooted in a power struggle.
He emphasized that the cause of the rift is straightforward, pointing out that it centers on the control of political affairs in the state. "The issue is simple. It has to do with power and control," Fubara remarked. He further highlighted a recent incident involving council chairmen, which he believes exemplifies the extent of the power tussle. "If an election was held and council chairmen were inaugurated under normal circumstances, would there be any need for anyone to obstruct them from entering the Secretariat?" he questioned.
Keeping Agreements Intact
Governor Fubara expressed frustration over allegations that he has not adhered to certain agreements, insisting that he has honored all prior commitments. "There is no understanding that I haven’t kept. Like I said, I won’t want to discuss those issues," he stated, remaining vague about the specifics of the agreements in question. Despite the challenges, Fubara maintained that he has remained consistent in his actions, even as tensions with Wike continue to escalate.
Concerns Over Presidential Mediation
Fubara also touched on President Bola Tinubu's involvement in attempts to resolve the dispute. While he acknowledged the President’s efforts, he expressed reservations about how the matter was framed, particularly with only his name being highlighted. "I don’t have any issue with the President’s intervention, but I am a bit concerned when only my name was mentioned," he noted. Despite these concerns, Fubara refrained from criticizing Tinubu, choosing instead to stay neutral. "Since it is coming from the President, I have no comments about it," he concluded.
A Straightforward Issue
Reiterating his stance, Governor Fubara underscored the simplicity of the situation, stating that the source of the problem is well-known to the people of Rivers State. "This issue is as simple as ABC. Everyone in Nigeria and Rivers knows where this issue is coming from. It is not rocket science. The issue is not Fubara," he affirmed.
As the conflict between Fubara and Wike continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the power dynamics in Rivers State will be resolved, especially with political mediation efforts ongoing.
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