FEMI OTUBANJO
The Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Femi Otubanjo, has expressed concern over the political situation unfolding in Rivers State, warning that the treatment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara could eventually become a major challenge for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Otubanjo criticised the handling of the Rivers political crisis, particularly the growing influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, within the All Progressives Congress (APC) structure in the state.
According to him, it is unusual that Wike, who is not officially a member of the APC, appears to wield enormous influence over political decisions within the ruling party in Rivers State. He described the development as one of the “American wonders of Nigerian politics,” while insisting that Governor Fubara has been unfairly treated in the ongoing political battle.
Otubanjo argued that the current situation suggests that Wike may be pursuing personal political interests rather than working in alignment with President Tinubu’s long-term political strategy.
He warned that allowing internal political tensions in Rivers State to escalate unchecked could negatively affect the APC’s unity and weaken the president’s political standing as preparations for the 2027 elections begin to intensify.
“The reality is that what they have done is very dangerous for Tinubu,” Otubanjo said during the interview.
He further stated that, “What has emerged in Rivers today is that Wike is pursuing his own agenda, not Tinubu’s agenda. If Wike really wants to pursue Tinubu’s agenda, he must retain Fubara.”
Political analysts continue to describe Rivers State as one of Nigeria’s most strategic political battlegrounds due to its economic relevance, population strength, and influence in national politics.
The ongoing tensions between political actors in the state have once again highlighted the complexities of Nigerian politics, where alliances, loyalties, and rivalries often cut across party lines.
Observers say attention will now shift to the leadership of the APC and President Tinubu’s political camp to see whether efforts will be made to reconcile key figures in Rivers State and prevent deeper divisions within the party ahead of the next general elections.
About The Author
