The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has referred to his successor as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as his “boy” amid their ongoing political rift.
Wike made this statement in an interview with BBC Pidgin, saying that despite their differences, he is not opposed to making peace with Fubara.
“That boy is my boy, my son. How can I fight a battle with him? Those I fight are people who want to steal what they did not work for,” Wike said.
He added that President Bola Tinubu had reached out to him to make peace, and he had agreed.
“The President called me to make peace; I said, ‘Boss, how will you tell me to make peace and I won’t?’”
The disagreement between Wike and Fubara has led to a political crisis in Rivers State, prompting President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency and suspend Fubara, his deputy, and the House of Assembly.
The President also appointed a retired naval chief, Ibok-Ete Ibas, as the sole administrator to pilot the affairs of the state.
The decision sparked protests and counter-protests in the state, with 11 Peoples Democratic Party governors filing a suit at the Supreme Court to challenge the President’s action.
However, the National Assembly has urged the court to dismiss the suit, arguing that it is procedurally flawed and lacks merit.
Meanwhile, Fubara has stated that he is not desperate to return to office. Speaking at a service of songs in honour of the late elder statesman, Edwin Clark, Fubara said, “Do you even know if I want to go back there? My spirit has already left there.”
He also warned that some actions taken by his supporters had worsened the situation.
Fubara’s comments suggest that he is taking a cautious approach to the crisis, while Wike’s statement indicates that he is open to reconciliation.
The outcome of the Supreme Court suit and the President’s decision will likely determine the future of the state and the careers of the key players involved.
