The fresh cracks have emerged in the fragile peace accord between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as their respective allies intensify preparations for the 2027 governorship election.
The reconciliation facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last year appears increasingly strained. Key terms of the deal reportedly required Governor Fubara not to seek re-election and to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, recent developments signal shifting dynamics. On Tuesday, a group of elders and allies of the governor, led by Hon. Awaji Inombek Abiante, procured governorship nomination forms for Fubara, igniting speculation that he may pursue a second term.
In swift response, Wike’s loyalists entered the fray: Dr. Dax George-Kelly picked APC forms, while Hon. Kingsley Chinda obtained PDP nomination forms.
Architect Tonye Patrick Cole, a prominent APC figure and ally of former Governor Rotimi Amaechi, has also declared his intention to contest and vowed not to step down for any candidate.
Political observers note that while Cole faces structural challenges, Kelly and Chinda benefit from Wike’s formidable grassroots network, potentially complicating Fubara’s path in both major parties.
Compounding the tension, Governor Fubara is said to have endorsed 32 loyalists, including former Speaker Victor Oko Jumbo, for state House of Assembly seats. A key ally, Hon. Chijioke Ihunwo, is positioned to challenge the current assembly leadership.
Sources indicate these moves have displeased Wike’s camp, raising the spectre of renewed impeachment proceedings once the House resumes plenary. Alleged constitutional breaches related to budget processes and executive appointments are cited as possible grounds.
Despite the brewing storm, analysts suggest the odds may favour Fubara. With Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma chairing the APC screening committee and broad support from APC governors, the governor could navigate party hurdles effectively. Calls have intensified for President Tinubu to rein in his minister to prevent further instability within the APC in Rivers State.
As the 2027 polls approach, the political landscape in Rivers remains volatile. The standoff between these two influential figures not only tests the durability of the presidential peace pact but also holds significant implications for stability and governance in Nigeria’s oil-rich state. Stakeholders urge restraint to avert a return to open confrontation.
