The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has accused President Bola Tinubu of playing a central role in the ongoing political feud between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
In a statement, CUPP said the turmoil in Rivers State is not coincidental but a deliberate political maneuver, describing the state as being “consciously immolated” as a political offering to the president.
The opposition coalition criticized both Wike and Fubara for prioritizing personal relevance and patronage over responsible governance, suggesting their rivalry has come at the expense of the state’s citizens.
“In this orchestrated tragedy, the genuine sufferers are ordinary citizens of Rivers State, whose peace, prosperity, and democratic rights are being traded for the personal survival and influence of their leaders,” said CUPP National Secretary, High Chief Peter Ameh.
CUPP noted that federal interventions, including a state of emergency and peace accords facilitated by the presidency, have effectively consolidated federal control over Rivers State politics.
“President Tinubu is the ultimate winner in the conflict between Wike and Fubara. Both leaders are now acting under his influence,” Chief Ameh said, adding that the feud has eliminated independent political maneuvering in the oil-rich state.
The coalition warned that the real losers are the people of Rivers State, citing disruptions in governance, weakened democratic institutions, and diversion of resources from critical development projects.
CUPP urged citizens to remain vigilant and demand responsible, issue-focused leadership from their elected officials rather than allowing personal ambitions to dominate state affairs.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy and the rule of law across Nigeria, cautioning that unchecked federal interference in state politics poses a threat to the nation’s federal structure.