Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has blamed the political crisis in Rivers State on Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to distance himself from the political structure that brought him to power.
Speaking during a media chat with selected radio stations in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike said Fubara began building a separate political structure less than 100 days after assuming office, a move he described as the governor’s biggest mistake.
“His mistake was trying to establish his own structure against the structure that brought him into office, and it happened too early. It started within his first 100 days in office,” Wike said.
The former Rivers governor alleged that advisers encouraged Fubara to break away from those who supported his emergence, warning that political leaders must distinguish between good and bad counsel.
Wike said he repeatedly advised the governor to concentrate on governance and continue efforts to develop Rivers State instead of engaging in political conflicts.
Recalling a conversation during a church service, he said he urged Fubara to pursue a vision that would position Rivers as a competitor to Lagos.
Rejecting claims that their disagreement was motivated by financial interests, Wike insisted the dispute was never about money.
“It was never about money. If it were, we wouldn’t be where we are today. My focus was on governance and ensuring Rivers kept pace with leading states. Unfortunately, he lost focus.”
Addressing controversy over impeachment threats during the crisis, Wike said impeachment is a constitutional and political process that can arise during disagreements among political actors.
He added that such disputes can be resolved when all parties place the interests of the state above personal differences.
The minister also commented on the political future of Edison Ehie and lawmakers who aligned with Fubara during the crisis, saying they would have to determine their own political paths following the governor’s reconciliation with his political camp.
Wike argued that recent developments, including the Supreme Court’s nullification of the local government elections conducted under Fubara’s administration, had weakened the governor’s political standing.
He also dismissed allegations that he was seeking to control Rivers politics, saying political structures and alliances are common features of democratic systems across the world.
On his relationship with President Bola Tinubu, Wike said they share common political objectives.
“If I support the President and the governor also supports the President, then we are working together. We are all working to deliver the candidates of the coalition.”
The FCT minister further defended the Rainbow Coalition, describing it as a political alliance involving four parties designed to reduce conflict by allocating elective positions based on consensus and political strength.
He maintained that the arrangement promotes cooperation and does not undermine democratic principles.
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