Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has asserted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not remove the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to favour Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the prolonged political crisis in the oil-rich state. Fayose delivered the remarks during a television interview, emphasising loyalty and political value as key factors in the president’s decision-making.
Speaking on Arise Television, Fayose said Tinubu is unlikely to “get rid of Wike” in an attempt to resolve the ongoing feud between the FCT minister and the Rivers governor. He described Wike as a politically significant figure whose support has been instrumental for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that the president values his contribution too highly to sacrifice him for Fubara.
Fayose noted that Wike’s political influence extends beyond his current ministerial position, pointing to his role in delivering victories for the APC in previous elections. He highlighted that the party’s success in Rivers local government elections was largely attributed to Wike’s efforts, and believes this track record makes him indispensable to Tinubu’s political strategy. “Wike came from Rivers to give support to President Tinubu,” Fayose said, adding that the minister has continued to perform strongly, particularly in Abuja, where his work is evident to all.
The former governor also commented on Fubara’s attempts to seek presidential intervention, interpreting such moves as indicative of frustration rather than political strength. Fayose characterised Fubara’s outreach to the presidency as an admission that he needs support, arguing that humility and a willingness to pursue reconciliation might serve the Rivers governor better.
Fayose’s comments come against the backdrop of a deepening rift between Fubara and Wike that has had significant political repercussions in Rivers State. The disagreement, which has persisted for months, has escalated into impeachment proceedings initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly against Governor Fubara over allegations of gross misconduct.
Observers say the conflict has exposed fractures within Rivers politics and raised questions about loyalty, political influence and the sway of power brokers in national governance. Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a key ally during Tinubu’s presidential campaign, has maintained a high profile despite the controversy, while Fubara’s relationship with him has deteriorated over competing ambitions and perceived interference in state affairs.
Political analysts note that Fayose’s remarks reflect broader perceptions of Tinubu’s governance style, which, they say, places premium value on loyalty and proven political utility. This approach, according to the analysts, may make it unlikely that Tinubu will distance himself from a trusted ally like Wike, even as pressure mounts from opposing factions.
Fayose also urged Fubara to consider reconciliation with Wike, advocating for peace and unity rather than continued rivalry. He said genuine efforts to repair the relationship could be more beneficial than seeking external intervention or escalating tensions.
As political maneuvers continue in Rivers State, the debate over loyalties, leadership roles and presidential influence remains central to understanding the complex dynamics driving the state’s political landscape. Fayose’s perspective adds a prominent voice to the ongoing discourse, highlighting the intricate interplay between national leadership priorities and state-level power struggles.
