In the lead-up to the 2023 general elections, the dynamics between Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, and Siminalayi Fubara, the state Accountant-General, resembled a complex game of political chess.
Initially, their relationship appeared as that of a father and son, with Wike determined to handpick Fubara as his successor despite opposition from party members who questioned Fubara’s political experience and party contributions.
Wike’s decision created a rift within the party, causing prominent figures such as Celestine Omehia, Tele Ikuru, Abiye Sekibo, Austin Opara, and Lee Maeba to clash with him. These party stalwarts, who had aspirations of their own, felt marginalized by Wike’s actions, leading to a significant division within the party. Additionally, they aligned themselves with a group of five governors known as the G-5, who opposed Wike’s support for the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
Nevertheless, Fubara emerged as the party’s standard-bearer and won the governorship election by a wide margin. The transition of power took place in a public ceremony where Wike officially handed over authority to Fubara. Initially, their relationship seemed harmonious, but cracks soon appeared in their alliance.
As time went on, Wike’s influence continued to loom large over Fubara’s administration. Wike ensured that key commissioners who had served under him were reappointed by Fubara, while the incumbent governor’s decision-making power appeared limited, often necessitating Wike’s approval. These developments began to bother Fubara, who sought solace by confiding in other politicians, including some who were known adversaries of Wike.
Fubara’s actions further strained the relationship between the two leaders. Wike, feeling undermined, initiated moves to unseat Fubara through the state House of Assembly. However, an explosion at the Assembly complex disrupted these plans. Subsequently, Fubara ordered the demolition of the damaged complex, citing structural concerns.
Amid the political turmoil, President Bola Tinubu intervened and brokered an eight-point peace agreement between the warring factions. The agreement required Fubara to represent the budget to the entire House and reinstate pro-Wike commissioners who had resigned. Despite facing opposition from his supporters, Fubara committed to implementing the agreement, emphasizing his respect for President Tinubu.
Currently, the issues surrounding the budget representation, the status of lawmakers, and the presidential intervention are awaiting resolution in court. Fubara remains publicly dedicated to honoring the peace accord, citing his regard for President Tinubu as the driving force behind his decision.
Political analysts have weighed in on Fubara’s refusal to represent the budget, highlighting the potential risks involved. They argue that it would be a grave tactical error for him to take on this responsibility, as it could be a trap set by pro-Wike lawmakers to undermine him.
Adding to the complexity, the recent statement by the FCT Minister, ruling out any possibility of reconciliation with his estranged political godson, seems to signal the end of any hope for a resolution between the two. Meanwhile, Fubara has been showcasing diplomatic skills, advocating for peace while preparing for a confrontational stance.
The pro-Wike lawmakers remain steadfast and have vetoed the governor’s attempts to amend certain existing state laws, including the Rivers State Local Government Law, the state Advertising and Signage Law, and the Rivers State Assembly Commission Law. These proposed amendments would significantly limit the governor’s powers if approved.
Just a few weeks ago, on March 30, the 27 lawmakers threatened Governor Fubara with impeachment as a last resort to fulfill their responsibilities and uphold the constitution. Speaker Amaewhule, accompanied by 26 colleagues, voiced their concerns during a press briefing at his official residence. They accused the governor of failing to implement the agreements reached in Abuja and of governing the state without an approved budget.
Amaewhule also criticized Dr. Abiye Sekibo, the former Director General of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council in the state, for disparaging the FCT minister before President Tinubu. He reminded Sekibo and his pro-Atiku supporters that the Rivers State House of Assembly has the mandate of the people and is duty-bound, including resorting to impeachment if necessary.
It is evident that the political imbroglio in Rivers State carries significant consequences in the weeks and months ahead. The temporary peace achieved through the Abuja peace agreement is now shattered. While Governor Fubara has been assertive and garnered support from various stakeholders, Wike still maintains control over the political structure, particularly within the PDP in the state.
Wike’s influence is evident, as he retains the loyalty of all 23 local government area chairmen who were elected during his tenure as governor. Additionally, the three senators, including Senator Barry Mpigi from the Rivers South-East district, remain staunch allies of Wike. The FCT Minister also enjoys the support of the majority of the 13 members of the National Assembly from the state, with only a few dissenting voices.
Nonetheless, Fubara is aware of the challenges he faces and has taken steps to win the hearts of the people, particularly civil servants and labor unions. Measures such as approving payment of salary arrears, promoting stagnant workers, and providing a Christmas bonus of N100,000 for workers last December have endeared him to these groups.
Various organizations, including the ‘Grassroots Development Initiative,’ a political arm of the PDP established before the 2015 general election, have visited the governor at the Government House, Port Harcourt, to pledge their loyalty and support for his administration. This show of support adds an element of complexity to the political landscape.
