“Leave Rivers State Alone” – FCT Minister Wike warns APC National Secretary

Rivers State, Nigeria – Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, urging him to refrain from meddling in Rivers State politics and to exercise caution in his public statements.

Wike delivered the warning during a “thank-you” visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, asserting that the APC had access to funds from the N600 billion left in the state’s coffers and cautioning against any attempts to influence local political affairs.

The minister’s remarks come in response to recent comments by the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), who referred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the “so-called governor” of Rivers State and suggested that Fubara could not secure a second term without Wike’s involvement.

Basiru later described the Vice Chairman’s remarks as “unfortunate,” emphasizing that the office of the governor commands respect, regardless of political affiliations.

In a pointed response, Wike declared that Rivers State is a “no-go area” for external interference, recalling past experiences of those who tried to meddle in the state’s politics.

“Let me warn those who come to Rivers State… don’t take our support for Mr. President for granted. Be careful with the statements you make. This state is a no-go area. Take the one you have taken and stop making unnecessary comments,” Wike said.

The minister also highlighted the contributions and sacrifices of Rivers State political actors, urging outsiders to recognize the state’s political autonomy.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, Renewed Hope Ambassador for Rivers State, criticized the Fubara administration for slow development in Oyigbo LGA since the governor’s inauguration.

“Development in Oyigbo has stalled. The only tangible benefit received is a Commissioner slot. Oyigbo must not be shortchanged in allocations from the N600 billion left in the state’s account. We are asking for fairness, not favors,” Akawor said.

The confrontation underscores ongoing tensions between local political interests in Rivers State and external actors, highlighting the delicate balance of power within the region’s political landscape.