Political Sh*ckwaves In Rivers: Wike’s Silence Fuels Tension As Tinubu Intervenes

Fubara, who is said to be currently outside the country, has not yet been formally served with the impeachment notice. However, sources indicate that influential power brokers within the APC and the presidency are backing him to remain in office.

According to multiple sources who spoke to Vanguard, recent remarks by the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, and the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu—both of whom praised Fubara and acknowledged him as the party’s leader in Rivers State—reflect the prevailing sentiment among key decision-makers in Abuja.

Among those reportedly supporting the governor are Imo State Governor and Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as well as the Minister of Transportation, Senator Dave Umahi.

The Pan-Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political organisation in the South-South, has also weighed in on the unfolding crisis. Speaking to Vanguard, Rivers State elder and PANDEF chieftain, Anabs Sara-Igbe, appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and prevent further instability, describing the impeachment move as the third attempt by lawmakers to unseat Fubara and his deputy.

Wike Maintains Silence

Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has remained noticeably silent as the presidency, APC leadership, and other stakeholders move to de-escalate the renewed political tension triggered by the impeachment process.

Before the latest move by lawmakers—many of whom are perceived as Wike loyalists—the former Rivers governor had frequently used public gatherings to openly criticise Fubara.

However, Wike avoided commenting on the impeachment during his “thank-you” visit to Andoni Local Government Area on Friday. Observers noted a subdued mood, as the minister spent less than five minutes addressing the large crowd and made no public reference to the impeachment proceedings.