Tensions have emerged within the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a political standoff between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, over affairs in Rivers State.
The dispute revolves around Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who recently joined the APC after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). While his defection has reportedly bolstered his standing within the party, Wike has expressed strong displeasure and opposed support for the governor.
Wike, during a thank-you visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, warned Basiru to stay out of Rivers politics, labelling the state a “no-go area” for external interference. The minister’s remarks referenced what he claimed was the misuse of N600 billion in the state’s coffers by political actors to make reckless statements about Rivers politics.
The tension was heightened following comments by APC Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, who allegedly referred to Fubara as “the so-called governor” and asserted that the Rivers governor could not win a second term without Wike’s backing.
Senator Basiru responded, condemning Giadom’s remarks as inappropriate and emphasising that the office of the governor must be respected irrespective of political differences. He also warned Wike against attempting to destabilise the ruling party and suggested that the minister should resign from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet if he could not refrain from interfering in party matters.
Reacting to the unfolding drama, a senior APC official told Daily Post that the public spat is “embarrassing and unnecessary.” The official cautioned that such disputes could damage the party’s credibility, especially in Rivers, which remains a politically pivotal state ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said, “This fiery exchange is damaging the party’s image. If it continues unchecked, it risks undermining our unity and could have serious political consequences, particularly in a swing state like Rivers. Party leaders must prioritise cohesion over personal influence and ambition.”
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