(DDM) – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has voiced concerns over the recent Local Government Area (LGA) elections in the state, declaring certain actions taken by Governor Siminalayi Fubara as “illegal” pending the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Wike made these remarks during a media briefing on Friday, warning that the political crisis in Rivers could worsen if the legal framework surrounding the elections is ignored.
Political crisis deepens
The recently concluded LGA elections in Rivers State have been trailed by allegations of irregularities, political interference, and legal breaches.
Wike accused Fubara of failing to follow due process in conducting the polls, insisting that the exercise lacked proper legal foundation.
According to him, only President Tinubu’s timely intervention can prevent the unfolding crisis from destabilising governance at the grassroots level.
Rift between Wike and Fubara widens
The comments mark another chapter in the escalating political feud between Wike and his successor, Fubara.
Both men were previously political allies, with Wike playing a crucial role in Fubara’s emergence as governor.
However, tensions between them have grown since Fubara assumed office, with disagreements over state administration and control of political structures.
Political observers believe the dispute has reached a critical stage, with the LGA election serving as a flashpoint for deeper battles ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Analysts react to Wike’s position
Analysts suggest that Wike’s latest statement signals a strategic move to challenge Fubara’s authority and reaffirm his own influence in Rivers politics.
Supporters of Wike argue that he is standing up for democratic norms by calling out alleged legal breaches.
Conversely, critics believe his comments are a veiled attempt to undermine the incumbent governor and retain control over the political machinery of the state.
Tinubu’s role in resolving the crisis
Wike stressed that President Tinubu must step in to mediate, given his position as the head of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the country’s leader.
He hinted that further political actions would be considered should the president fail to intervene promptly.
DDM gathered that the presidency has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, leaving political stakeholders uncertain about the next course of action.
Implications for Rivers governance
The standoff has raised concerns about the stability of governance in Rivers State, particularly at the local government level.
Civil society groups have warned that prolonged political wrangling could disrupt service delivery and development initiatives.
Furthermore, the outcome of this dispute could influence the political alignment of key stakeholders in the South-South region, especially as parties begin to strategise ahead of future elections.
A developing story
As the political drama unfolds, attention remains fixed on President Tinubu’s expected response and Wike’s next line of action.
Fubara’s administration has yet to formally address Wike’s latest comments, but sources indicate that legal teams are reviewing the minister’s claims to prepare a formal reply.
Observers predict that the coming weeks could determine whether Rivers State navigates its way to political stability, or plunges deeper into crisis.
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