Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly rejected reports claiming that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assumed leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state following his reported defection.
Addressing the issue on Monday, Wike described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that leadership within the APC cannot be acquired merely by joining the party. He stressed that the Rivers APC has an existing structure anchored by long-standing members who have laboured to build and sustain the party over the years.
The former Rivers State governor noted that political office, including the governorship, does not automatically translate to party leadership. According to him, leadership in the APC is determined by internal democratic processes, loyalty, and sustained contributions, not by the status of any individual entrant.
Wike’s remarks come amid lingering political tension between him and Governor Fubara, his successor. Their prolonged rivalry had previously plunged Rivers State into intense political turmoil, disrupting governance and sharply dividing political actors across the state.
Although recent developments suggest moves toward reconciliation, with both sides reportedly engaging in dialogue to restore stability, Wike cautioned against reading too much into the peace efforts. He emphasized that reconciliation should not be misconstrued as a shift in political authority or control within the APC.
Observers say Governor Fubara’s defection has fueled speculation about a possible reshaping of Rivers State’s political landscape ahead of future elections. However, Wike’s comments indicate that any attempt to alter the party’s leadership structure may encounter stiff opposition from entrenched party stakeholders.
As political realignments continue to unfold, attention is now on the Rivers APC to clearly outline its leadership framework, even as analysts warn that unresolved rivalries could continue to influence the state’s political trajectory.
