Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has stated that his political career would be buried if Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara secures a second term. This comes amid escalating tensions, including Wike's public criticism of Fubara during a visit to Okrika Local Government Area and the suspension of a PDP chairman for supporting Wike.
On January 3, 2026, Nyesom Wike, former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, intensified his feud with incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Speaking during a thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area, Wike declared that a second-term victory for Fubara would end his own political career irreparably.
Wike launched a sharp attack on Fubara, referencing remarks allegedly calling his supporters 'barking dogs.' He countered, 'That same dog barked and helped make you governor. This dog that is barking now was barking when people did not even know who the person was.' Wike emphasized shifting political alignments in Rivers State, stating there are 'no longer any no-go areas' and that former rivals are now uniting under what he called the 'real Hope family.'
The visit saw the Rivers State chapter of the Ijaw People’s Congress withdraw its support for Fubara and pledge loyalty to Wike. Chairman Senator George Sekibo explained, 'Ijaw people are very grateful people. That is why we abandoned him and said we will follow you.' Sekibo highlighted Wike's contributions to the Ijaw community. Local leaders, including Okrika Council Chairman Akuro Tobin and Deputy Speaker Linda Stewart, also voiced strong support for Wike.
In related developments, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State suspended its Caretaker Committee Chairman, Robinson Ewor, for declaring support for Wike. Wike defended his credentials against critics, noting his legal education, status as a Life Bencher, and national honour of CON, while dismissing opponents as electoral failures.
Wike also visited the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, urging him to stay out of partisan politics and hinting at plans for the 2027 elections. He stressed that money alone cannot secure victory and that mobilization is key.
