Rivers In Crisis: APC Warns Wike-Fubara Power Struggle Is Costing Citizens

Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a senior figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has warned that the prolonged political feud between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and his protégé, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has severely undermined governance, development, and economic stability in the state.

Speaking to Daily Post on the fallout of the crisis, Eze described Wike’s actions as driven by a false narrative of public service, claiming they have caused lasting damage to Rivers State.

“The unwarranted power struggle in Rivers, instigated by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike under the guise of fighting for the public good, has significantly disrupted governance in the state,” he said.

Eze noted that Rivers was making steady progress until the declaration of emergency rule by President Bola Tinubu, which, he argued, stalled government operations.

“Before the emergency declaration, the state’s governance and administration were progressing steadily. But the machinery of government was essentially brought to a halt by the removal of the Governor,” he said.

He highlighted the abandonment of major infrastructure projects as a key consequence. “The multi-billion-naira Ring Road project, connecting several local government areas, was halted during the emergency, delaying timelines and potentially increasing costs by billions of naira,” Eze explained.

According to him, the political feud also disrupted the state’s economy. “Investors were deterred, jobs were lost, internally generated revenue suffered, and the government struggled to pay salaries while billions were allegedly siphoned into private pockets,” he claimed.

Eze accused Wike of deliberately undermining the state’s progress to consolidate political control. “Wike’s attempts to sabotage Rivers State for political gain are deeply harmful to his own state,” he said, alleging that the former governor destroyed projects initiated by his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi, in agriculture, education, and security.

He added that Wike’s desire to dominate state affairs has prevented peace since Fubara assumed office. “He wanted the Governor to be nothing more than a figurehead, receiving orders and prohibitions,” Eze alleged.

Eze also claimed Wike aimed to weaken Fubara politically ahead of a potential second term, seeking to ensure the governor’s re-election would depend on Wike’s influence rather than merit.

Despite these challenges, Eze commended Governor Fubara for his foresight and perseverance, though he acknowledged the governor is still grappling with the fallout.

“The sabotage was massive, and distractions continue unnecessarily,” he said. “The impact of this crisis on governance is profound, and the state will face long-term recovery challenges.”

Eze concluded with a prayer for divine guidance for the governor. “I pray God grants Governor Fubara the wisdom to navigate these trials so that Rivers State can recover quickly,” he said.