The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has announced its withdrawal of support from Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, in a move that underscores shifting political alignments in Rivers State.
The decision was made public on Saturday by the Chairman of the Congress, Senator George Sekibo, during Wike’s thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area.
Describing the rift between Fubara and Wike as “unfortunate,” Sekibo said the Ijaw people could not be branded as ungrateful, recalling the role Wike played in the emergence of Fubara, an Ijaw son, as governor of the state.
“Please do not look at him and conclude that the Ijaw people are ungrateful,” Sekibo said. “Ijaw people are very grateful. That is why we have withdrawn from him and decided to follow you. You have done so much for the Ijaw people in Rivers.”
He pledged the continued support of the Ijaw people to Wike and affirmed their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, noting that the group would stand by leaders who had shown consistency and commitment.
Earlier, the Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Akuro Tobin, described Wike as his political godfather, saying the minister had facilitated opportunities for many sons and daughters of the area through elective and appointive positions.
Tobin assured Wike of the support of the people of Okrika, including youths and women, adding that they remained firmly aligned with him and the President.
Speaking on behalf of women in the area, the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and representative of Okrika Constituency, Linda Stewart, commended Wike’s record in promoting women’s participation in governance, describing his support as unprecedented.
In his remarks, Wike thanked the people for their support and urged them to remain steadfast in backing President Tinubu, whom he described as a leader who keeps his word.
He also called on the people to continue to support leaders of integrity and proven character, stressing the importance of trust in public life.
The minister later paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, where he praised the monarch for fostering unity and peace in his domain.
Wike disclosed that a decision had been taken concerning the 2027 general elections, noting that details would be communicated at the appropriate time.
He, however, advised traditional rulers to refrain from partisan political engagements, urging them instead to guide their people and intervene when necessary to maintain harmony.
“It will not be business as usual,” Wike said. “Allow us to play our game, and if there is any problem, call us to settle.”
