Political Tension Escalates in Rivers State as Suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara Praises FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Amid Power Struggles

Rivers State continues to experience intense political tension following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.

Despite the suspension and state of emergency declared in the state Fubara has publicly praised Nyesom Wike the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and his predecessor as Rivers State Governor as power struggles persist.

President Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly over prolonged political instability and governance paralysis in the state.

The suspension followed months of conflict including a disputed state assembly legal battles and a declaration of a state of emergency. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as the state administrator during the suspension period.

In a recent statement, Fubara commended Wike for his leadership and affirmed his respect for the former governor despite ongoing political challenges.

This praise comes amid a complex political rivalry between Fubara and Wike as Wike continues to wield significant influence in the region while serving as the FCT Minister.

Fubara reiterated his commitment to peace, constitutional order, and the welfare of Rivers State residents highlighting efforts made by his administration to restore stability by complying with court rulings and reinstating commissioners.

However he cited obstruction from some members of the state assembly as hampering progress toward genuine peace and governance.

The political stalemate remains unresolved, with legal suits challenging Fubara’s suspension ongoing and discussions around possible reinstatement continuing in the background.

The tension reflects broader challenges of governance, power control and political rivalry within Rivers State’s leadership landscape.