Wike Accuses Fubara's Associates of Political Deception

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, accused four close associates of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara—Edison Ehie, Chijioke Ihunwo, Victor Oko Jumbo, and activist Ankio Briggs—of deceiving him and worsening the political crisis in Rivers State. During a media chat in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike claimed these individuals provided Fubara with poor counsel, resulting in a prolonged political face-off.

He alleged that their advice caused Fubara to abandon agreements stemming from a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu. Wike expressed sympathy for Fubara, stating, “I feel for Governor Siminalayi Fubara because he is the biggest loser.” The ongoing conflict between Wike and Fubara, who is Wike's successor, has led to significant political instability, including a six-month suspension of Fubara imposed by President Tinubu.

Despite Fubara's defection to the All Progressives Congress, he was unable to secure a ticket for a second term and has recently announced a return to Wike's political camp.