Shettima Affirms Fubara as APC Leader in Rivers, Warns Against Interference

Vice President Kashim Shettima has clearly stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara continues to hold the position of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Rivers State. His declaration was firm and direct, leaving no ambiguity about the party’s recognized structure in the oil-producing state.

In the same statement, the Vice President cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, against interfering in APC matters within Rivers State. According to Shettima, party discipline and internal hierarchy must be upheld, especially at a time when unity remains critical for the ruling party’s stability across the country.

Shettima made these remarks during an APC solidarity gathering held in Enugu State. While addressing party members and stakeholders, he emphasized that his role as Nigeria’s Vice President also places him as the second-highest-ranking official within the APC. From that position, he stressed that respect for established leadership structures is non-negotiable and must be observed by all party members, regardless of their political influence or previous standing.

To reinforce his point, Shettima referenced examples from other states where leadership roles within the APC are clearly defined and respected. In Borno State, he explained, the sitting governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, serves as the recognized leader of the party in the state. This remains the case despite the presence of other influential APC figures from the region.

He further cited Akwa Ibom State as another example. Even though Senate President Godswill Akpabio currently holds the position of Nigeria’s third-highest-ranking official, the leadership of the APC in Akwa Ibom State remains with Governor Umo Eno. This, according to Shettima, demonstrates that party leadership at the state level is determined by established structures rather than national political ranking.

Through these comparisons, the Vice President underscored the importance of consistency within the APC. His remarks highlight the party’s stance that sitting governors retain leadership control in their respective states, and external interference is discouraged. The statement also signals a broader call for internal order and respect for party hierarchy across all APC-controlled states.