Wike Explains Fubara's Failed Second Term Ambition

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, stated that the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State hindered Governor Siminalayi Fubara's ambition for a second term. Wike accused Fubara of being influenced by political associates and external forces, which led to a breakdown in their relationship shortly after Fubara took office in 2023.

Wike warned Fubara against abandoning the political structure that facilitated his rise to power. The conflict escalated, resulting in impeachment threats against Fubara from lawmakers loyal to Wike and a six-month state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.

Following his reinstatement, Fubara switched from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and later withdrew from the APC governorship primaries in May 2026, a decision linked to prior agreements with Wike. Wike expressed disappointment that Fubara did not build upon the foundation he established during his governorship.