Wike’s Loyalists Accuse Fubara Of Orchestrating APC Crisis, Reject Okocha’s Dismissal

Tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State have escalated as loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike have accused the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, of masterminding the party’s internal crisis. The accusations stem from the controversial dismissal of APC stalwart, Chief Tony Okocha, as the state coordinator for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Wike’s allies described Okocha’s removal as politically motivated and aimed at consolidating Fubara’s influence over the party. They further alleged that Fubara is using his office to sideline individuals loyal to Wike in an attempt to weaken their hold on the APC structure in the state.

“We are deeply concerned about the recent developments in Rivers APC. The removal of Chief Tony Okocha is not only unjust but also a deliberate attempt by Governor Fubara to destabilize the party and undermine the efforts of those who worked tirelessly to secure electoral victories for our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” a spokesperson for Wike’s camp stated.

The group emphasized that Okocha played a pivotal role in rallying grassroots support for Tinubu during the presidential election and described his dismissal as a betrayal of the party’s values. They reiterated their loyalty to Wike, whom they credit with strengthening the APC’s presence in Rivers State, and called for Okocha’s reinstatement.

Meanwhile, political analysts have noted that the crisis highlights the ongoing power tussle between Wike and Fubara, who were once allies but have since grown apart due to differing political ambitions. The friction threatens to polarize the APC in Rivers State, with each faction vying for control of the party machinery.

Governor Fubara’s camp, however, has denied the allegations, stating that the decision to dismiss Okocha was made in the best interest of the party. A senior aide to the governor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, argued that Okocha’s leadership had become divisive and that his removal was necessary to ensure unity and cohesion within the party.

As the rift deepens, stakeholders within the APC are calling for dialogue to resolve the conflict and prevent further damage to the party’s structure in Rivers State. However, with both camps standing their ground, the road to reconciliation appears uncertain.

The APC at the national level has yet to issue a statement on the matter, leaving the crisis unresolved and raising questions about the party’s ability to manage internal dissent ahead of key elections.