Wike Faults Fubara Over Rivers Projects, Youth Employment Policies

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has renewed his criticism of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, accusing the administration of reversing programmes initiated during his time as governor.

Speaking during the “Renewed Hope Family Thank You Visit” held in Ahoada East Local Government Area, the former Rivers governor expressed frustration over what he described as the dismantling of policies designed to support young people and accelerate infrastructure development across the state.

Former Governor Raises Concern Over Youth Job Losses

According to Wike, one of his biggest disappointments was the alleged removal of thousands of youths who were employed under his administration.

He stated that around 10,000 young residents had been integrated into various sectors before the change in government. The minister argued that those opportunities were created to reduce unemployment and improve economic stability for families across Rivers State.

Gossip News Now recalls that tensions between both political figures have continued to deepen in recent months, with disagreements now extending to governance policies and state development projects.

Road Projects Spark Fresh Political Disagreement

The FCT minister also challenged claims surrounding some ongoing road projects in Rivers State, insisting that major financial commitments had already been made before he left office.

He specifically referenced the Ahoada–Omoku road project and the Emohua–Kalabari road construction, maintaining that both developments were largely funded during his tenure.

According to him, the projects were awarded to Julius Berger under a structured payment arrangement tied to the state’s internally generated revenue.

Funding Structure Explained

Providing additional details at the event, Wike explained that the contracts were backed by a monthly deduction system running into billions of naira.

He revealed that the state had approved deductions of about ₦4 billion monthly to ensure consistent project financing until completion.

The former governor further noted that the total value of both projects stood at roughly ₦80 billion, while significant portions of the funding had reportedly already been settled before the current administration assumed office.

He also stated that the first phase of the Ahoada road dualisation had already been completed during his tenure before work advanced toward Omoku.

Leadership Should Sustain Development — Wike

During his remarks, the minister stressed that governance should focus on preserving and expanding existing development initiatives rather than abandoning them after a change in leadership.

Without directly softening his criticism, Wike suggested that administrations should prioritise continuity in governance for the benefit of residents.

He argued that projects and empowerment schemes are designed for the people and should not become casualties of political disagreements.

Political Rift Continues To Shape Rivers Politics

The latest comments add another chapter to the growing political confrontation between Wike and Fubara, a rivalry that has continued to dominate political discussions in Rivers State.

Observers believe the dispute is gradually shifting beyond party structures into broader debates over governance, influence and control of political structures within the state.

Analysts also note that the public exchange of accusations could further deepen divisions among supporters of both camps ahead of future political contests.

Commentary And Analysis

The ongoing conflict between Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara highlights the challenges that often emerge when political alliances collapse after transitions of power.

In many states, incoming administrations face pressure to either continue inherited projects or redefine policies to establish their own identity. However, disagreements over continuity can quickly evolve into larger political battles.

The Rivers situation also reflects how infrastructure projects and youth empowerment programmes are increasingly becoming central talking points in political influence struggles.

For many residents, the key concern remains whether governance and development will continue uninterrupted despite the prolonged political tension between both leaders.