Political observers in Rivers State are increasingly worried that the prolonged power tussle between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, is taking a heavy toll on governance and development in the oil-rich state.
The rift emerged shortly after Fubara’s inauguration in 2023, ending what was widely seen as a political alliance between the governor and his former benefactor. While critics describe Wike as overbearing, others argue that Fubara’s refusal to remain aligned with the political structure that supported his rise amounts to a breach of trust in Nigeria’s power-driven political culture.
Political analysts note that disagreements between predecessors and successors are not unusual, but warn that the Rivers situation has escalated into an open confrontation that risks destabilising the state. An APC chieftain, Chief Chukwuma Ugbah, said loyalty remains a key currency in Nigerian politics, stressing that political power is rarely achieved without strong backing.
Hopes of reconciliation dimmed despite reported interventions by President Bola Tinubu. Governor Fubara, who was previously spared impeachment following the president’s declaration of a state of emergency, again faced impeachment threats last week, with blame directed at forces aligned with the FCT minister.
The impeachment attempts stem from allegations including the bombing of the State Assembly complex, defiance of court orders during local government elections, and budget presentation to a reduced assembly faction—claims that have deepened the political divide.
Stakeholders say the crisis has stalled governance, disrupted legislative processes, and slowed infrastructure development. Rivers-based lawyer Chizi Enyi said the standoff has paralysed the state assembly, delayed budget approvals, and hindered key appointments, worsening the impact on public service delivery.
Similarly, APC chieftain Eze Chukwuemeka Eze alleged that the conflict has scared away investors, stalled major projects such as the Ring Road initiative, and weakened the state’s economy, leaving long-term consequences for employment and internally generated revenue.
Some political commentators believe the struggle is also tied to jockeying for influence ahead of the 2027 elections, with accusations that both camps are positioning themselves for favour at the federal level, often at the expense of state stability.
While reports suggest President Tinubu has again stepped in to halt the impeachment process, concerns remain that unless the crisis is resolved, Rivers State may continue to face governance disruptions, eroding public trust and slowing development.