“Leave Rivers State Alone” — FCT Minister Wike Cautions APC National Secretary

Rivers State, Nigeria — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong warning to the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, urging him to desist from interfering in the political affairs of Rivers State and to be more restrained in his public comments.

Wike delivered the warning during a “thank-you” visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, where he emphasized that the APC had benefited from funds drawn from the ₦600 billion left in the state’s treasury. He cautioned against any attempt by external political actors to influence or destabilize the state’s political landscape.
The minister’s remarks followed recent statements credited to the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), who described Governor Siminalayi Fubara as a “so-called governor” and claimed that the governor could not secure a second term without Wike’s backing. In response to the controversy generated by the comment, Basiru later termed the Vice Chairman’s remarks “unfortunate,” stressing that the office of a sitting governor deserves respect irrespective of party differences.
Reacting firmly, Wike declared that Rivers State would not tolerate external interference, recalling the fate of individuals who previously attempted to meddle in the state’s politics. He warned against taking the state’s political support for President Bola Tinubu for granted.
“Let me warn those who come to Rivers State. Do not take our support for Mr. President lightly. Be careful about the statements you make. This state is a no-go area. Take what you have taken and stop making unnecessary comments,” Wike stated.
The FCT Minister further underscored the sacrifices made by political stakeholders in Rivers State, insisting that outsiders must respect the state’s political independence and autonomy.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, the Renewed Hope Ambassador for Rivers State, criticized the current administration under Governor Fubara, alleging slow developmental progress in Oyigbo Local Government Area since the governor assumed office. According to Akawor, the only visible benefit received by the area so far is the appointment of a commissioner.
“Development in Oyigbo has stalled. The only tangible gain is a commissioner slot. Oyigbo should not be shortchanged in the allocation of the ₦600 billion left in the state’s account. We are demanding fairness, not special treatment,” Akawor said.
The exchange reflects the persistent tension between internal political interests in Rivers State and perceived external influences, highlighting the fragile balance of power within the state’s evolving political environment.