“The Asiwaju I Know Will Not Remove Wike for Fubara” — Fayose

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, has expressed his view that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is unlikely to dismiss the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in favour of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.

Fayose shared his thoughts during a detailed interview with ARISE Television on Tuesday, responding to questions surrounding the continuing power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, which has fueled political instability in Rivers State since late 2023.

According to Fayose, “The Asiwaju that I know will not remove a Wike to accommodate a Fubara. Wike, who hails from Rivers, came to support President Tinubu, and his efforts are recognized.”

He emphasized that Wike’s influence with the president is rooted in his performance as FCT Minister and his proven ability to deliver favorable electoral outcomes for the All Progressives Congress (APC). “Wike is actively performing in Abuja, and the improvements are evident. Even a casual observer cannot deny the progress made under his watch,” Fayose added.

Citing the recent local government elections in Rivers State, Fayose noted that the APC’s victories were largely due to Wike’s political clout and predicted a similar impact in forthcoming local elections in Abuja. He posed a rhetorical question to critics, asking, “So, what more could the President expect from Wike?”

Fayose also commented on reports that Governor Fubara allegedly sought President Tinubu’s intervention. He suggested that such actions indicate political miscalculation. “If Governor Fubara traveled to meet the President in France, it reflects a lack of strategic foresight. When one refuses humility and peace, they often run in circles, seeking solutions that may not exist outside themselves,” Fayose explained.

Regarding the challenges facing the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Fayose dismissed claims that President Tinubu had influenced their internal crisis. Instead, he attributed the party’s struggles to its own internal divisions. “The PDP is facing a self-inflicted insurrection. When a party is internally fragmented, survival becomes a test of strength among its members,” he said.

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Wike Responds: My Removal Is the President’s Decision

In a related development, Minister Wike addressed calls for his removal, stressing that any decision regarding his position lies solely with President Tinubu. During a “thank you” visit to Obio-Akpor Local Government Area on Sunday, he stated:

“Do not be concerned about individuals calling for my removal. If my appointor feels that I can no longer contribute effectively, it is his prerogative. It is not the role of the public to dictate such decisions.”

Wike highlighted the president’s recognition of his political value and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Tinubu’s agenda. Local officials, including Kingsley Chinda, minority leader in the House of Representatives, and Gift Worlu, Chairman of Obio-Akpor Council, also reiterated their support for the minister, pointing to his significant contributions to the community and the area’s electoral influence.

The comments by Fayose and Wike come as impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara continue in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The House cited alleged misconduct, including extra-budgetary spending and defiance of a Supreme Court ruling. Reports indicate that while Wike is not directly involved, the president has reportedly intervened to manage the escalating dispute.

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Key Takeaways

• Fayose asserts that President Tinubu values Wike’s performance and will not replace him for political expediency.
• Wike remains confident in his role and acknowledges that his removal is the president’s prerogative.
• Governor Fubara faces impeachment proceedings amid allegations of misconduct, highlighting ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.
• The PDP’s internal divisions are considered a major factor in its weakened political influence.