Rivers: Things Wike Said About Fubara in Recent Interview

• Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has publicly distanced himself from influencing Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s cabinet choices in Rivers State
• Speaking after the lifting of a six-month emergency rule, Wike insisted there was no legal obligation for Fubara to immediately resume office
• In a reconciliatory tone, he declared he had forgiven the governor, signalling a possible return to political stability in the state

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In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, addressed his relationship with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following the lifting of a six-month state of emergency in the oil-rich region.

Wike, who previously served as governor of Rivers State, made several pointed remarks that shed light on the political dynamics in the state.

1. Wike says he will not suggest commissioners to Fubara

Wike firmly stated that he had no intention of recommending commissioners to Governor Fubara. Despite speculation surrounding his influence in Rivers politics, the FCT Minister insisted that he would not interfere in the governor’s decisions.

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“I cannot go and impose anything on the governor. Why would I impose anything on the governor? Assuming I go to the governor and say, ‘I want this,’ will the state collapse? I will not (suggest commissioners for the governor) I have no candidate, and I will not.”

His comments appeared to signal a shift towards allowing Fubara greater autonomy in managing the affairs of the state.

2. Wike clarifies Fubara’s return to office is not bound by law

Addressing questions about Governor Fubara’s timeline for resuming office after the emergency rule, Wike dismissed the notion that the governor was legally obligated to return immediately.

“I am not his (Fubara) protocol officer. There is no law that says he must resume work today. He is a governor. I don’t understand the way we operate. Being sworn in today does not mean I will go to the office tomorrow.”

The statement came amid public curiosity over the governor’s next steps following the end of the emergency period declared by President Bola Tinubu during a political crisis involving Wike and Fubara.

3. Wike says he has forgiven Fubara and declares peace in Rivers

In a reconciliatory tone, Wike revealed that he had forgiven Governor Fubara, suggesting that the political tension in Rivers State was easing.

“I’ve forgiven Fubara, peace now back in Rivers.”

The declaration marked a notable development in the strained relationship between the two political figures, which had previously led to a dramatic intervention by the presidency.

Government positions held by Fubara before becoming governor

Legit.ng earlier reported that Siminalayi Fubara, the current Governor of Rivers State, rose through the ranks of the civil service over an 18-year career marked by steady progression and academic distinction.

Fubara’s public service career officially commenced in 2003 when he was appointed as a classroom teacher by the Rivers State Post-Primary Schools Board. He was posted to Comprehensive High School, Alesa-Eleme, where he reportedly taught for five years.

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