Is Nyesom Wike Undermining APC from Inside Government? Why Rivers APC Leaders Are Urging Tinubu to Sanction the FCT Minister Over ‘Anti-Party’ Activities

Why would leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) publicly demand the removal of a sitting minister appointed by their own government? And is Nigeria witnessing one of the most serious internal party confrontations since the 2023 elections?

A coalition of APC leaders has formally asked President Bola Tinubu to sanction or remove the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, accusing him of repeated anti-party conduct and statements that allegedly threaten national unity. The demand was conveyed in a memo addressed to the President through the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and was accompanied by plans for a protest at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

The signatories—including party chieftains and youth leaders—say their action was prompted by growing concern that Wike, a former Rivers State governor and still a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has consistently attacked APC leadership while serving in an APC-led federal government. Could a minister appointed from outside the ruling party be working at cross-purposes with the party that empowered him?

At the heart of the dispute are comments allegedly made by Wike during a “thank-you tour” in Oyigbo, Rivers State, where he was said to have criticised the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, accusing him of meddling in state politics for personal reasons and warning that those who interfere would “get their fingers burnt.” APC leaders argue that such remarks amount to direct disrespect for the party’s National Working Committee and an attempt by Wike to exert influence in Rivers State despite not being a registered APC member.

The coalition further alleges that Wike has been undermining the APC-led government in Rivers State through persistent public attacks on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reportedly calling his emergence a “mistake” and suggesting that the situation should be corrected in the 2027 elections. Are these political opinions—or a calculated strategy to weaken APC’s hold on Rivers State from within?

Beyond party politics, the memo raises alarms over what it describes as “dangerous and inflammatory” statements, including claims attributed to Wike that “nobody can enter Rivers State.” The APC leaders warn that portraying any part of Nigeria as a “no-go area” challenges federal authority, risks reviving tensions in the Niger Delta, and could undermine the President’s constitutional role as Commander-in-Chief. Could such rhetoric threaten national cohesion at a time when unity remains fragile?

The group insists that failure to act against the FCT Minister may deepen internal divisions, erode party discipline, and weaken APC’s electoral prospects in Rivers State. They have vowed to escalate their protests nationwide if their demand is ignored.

Is this a necessary stand to defend party supremacy and national unity—or a dramatic political showdown that exposes deeper fractures within Nigeria’s ruling party? As the standoff unfolds, all eyes remain on President Tinubu and whether he will heed the call to sanction one of the most powerful political figures in the country.

Rivers APC Rejects Impeachment of Governor Fubara Amid Political Crisis and PDP Pressure

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has formally rejected ongoing impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Oduh, warning that such action could destabilize the state and tarnish the party’s image. The impeachment effort, reportedly signed by 26 lawmakers, alleges gross misconduct by the state executive.

In a statement, the Rivers APC acknowledged the legislature’s constitutional independence but stressed that it cannot support removing a governor elected on its platform. The party linked the impeachment threat to internal disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and cautioned against external pressures influencing APC lawmakers.

The APC also addressed claims that the move was related to budgetary issues, highlighting that the ₦1.485 trillion budget for 2025–2026 had been approved and that the governor has constitutional leeway in its execution. The party urged lawmakers to discontinue the impeachment process to preserve governance, democracy, and political stability in Rivers State.

The political tension follows a lingering rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, which continues to polarize the state’s political landscape. APC officials have emphasized that leadership positions are tied to current officeholders, underscoring the party’s commitment to defending its elected executives and maintaining internal cohesion.

This development adds to the ongoing narrative of political turbulence in Nigerian states, highlighting party loyalty, legislative tensions, and the complexities of state governance under partisan pressures.

Rivers State House of Assembly Initiates Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara Amid Rift With Wike

The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn as the Rivers State House of Assembly formally began impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Oduh. During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, read a notice detailing allegations and claims of gross misconduct against Governor Fubara.

A total of 26 lawmakers reportedly signed the notice, which they claim aligns with provisions of the Nigerian Constitution. The Speaker announced that the notice would be formally served to Governor Fubara within seven days, in line with legislative procedures. Similarly, Deputy Governor Oduh faces a separate notice read by Deputy Majority Leader Linda Stewart.

The impeachment proceedings occur against the backdrop of a long-standing political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike, which continues to polarize Rivers State’s political structure. The All Progressives Congress (APC) emphasized that Wike’s potential involvement in the party would not override Fubara’s current office and leadership, underscoring the link between political roles and office-holding.

The ongoing crisis highlights the tensions within the state’s political elite, raising questions about governance, party dynamics, and the stability of Rivers State’s administration. The situation remains fluid as the assembly moves forward with the impeachment process, which could significantly impact the state’s political alignment and future leadership.

Will Wike Have to Bow to Fubara in APC? Why the Party Says the FCT Minister Must Follow Rivers Governor—and What This Power Shift Means for 2027 Politics

Is Nyesom Wike’s political influence in Rivers State finally being clipped? If the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), will he really be forced to operate under his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara? And what does this internal power struggle reveal about the battle for 2027?

The APC has made its position unmistakably clear: if Wike defects to the ruling party, he will not assume a dominant leadership role over the sitting Rivers State governor. According to the party’s Director of Information, Bala Ibrahim, leadership within the APC is tied strictly to current political office—not past power. While Wike would be “given a position” within the party, Ibrahim stressed that he would “certainly be under” Governor Fubara, who currently holds the highest elective office in Rivers State.

Why such a firm stance? Ibrahim explained that political authority follows office, not personality. “When he was the governor, he was followed. Now that he’s not the governor, he must follow,” he said, underscoring that once a leader vacates a seat, they no longer retain its power. In other words, past influence cannot override present authority in the APC’s hierarchy.

But is this just about party protocol—or something deeper? Reports suggest that Wike’s alleged efforts to undermine Fubara’s 2027 re-election bid have suffered a major blow. Several APC governors are said to have rallied behind Fubara, signaling growing support for the Rivers governor at the highest levels of the party. Party sources indicate that renewed tensions between the two men were triggered after top APC figures openly endorsed Fubara for a second term—an outcome Wike is reportedly opposed to.

What changed inside the APC? Insiders say the party leadership has become increasingly impressed with Fubara’s governance style and development projects, earning him favor among key decision-makers. This apparent shift in loyalty is being interpreted as a strategic move to consolidate power around the sitting governor while weakening Wike’s influence in his home state.

The conflict reportedly deepened when Wike’s allies attempted to push a preferred candidate for the Imo governorship without consulting the APC Governors’ Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodimma. Party officials claim this move backfired, prompting APC governors to close ranks around Fubara as part of a broader effort to curb Wike’s political reach. Some insiders even suggest that powerful figures within the Tinubu administration no longer see Wike as a favored ally.

So what does this mean going forward? If Wike eventually joins the APC, he may find himself navigating a party structure where authority is no longer shaped by his past dominance but by current officeholders—chief among them Governor Fubara. The unfolding drama raises critical questions: Is Wike’s era of control in Rivers coming to an end? Will Fubara emerge as the undisputed political force ahead of 2027? And is the APC deliberately re-engineering power in Rivers to sideline one of Nigeria’s most formidable political figures?

As endorsements mount and party leadership draws firm lines, one thing is clear: Rivers State politics is entering a decisive phase—and the outcome could reshape the state’s political landscape for years to come.

What Will Be the End of Nyesom Wike? Analysis of His Political Influence and Future Prospects”

In this incisive opinion piece, Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq., examines the political trajectory and future of Nyesom Wike, one of Nigeria’s most influential and polarizing politicians. Wike, formerly instrumental in shaping the emergence of President Tinubu, has long dominated Rivers State politics, pushing aside rivals and asserting a near-absolute influence over his political domain. His style, a combination of strategic brilliance, territorial control, and relentless confrontation, has both earned him admiration and created friction with allies and the opposition alike.
Wike’s political approach has been defined by territorial command—he defines the political space, punishes disloyalty, and keeps opponents uncertain. This method proved highly effective when he fully controlled Rivers politics, yet the shifting political terrain has begun to challenge his authority. The analysis highlights that when his former protégé, Governor Fubara, aligned with the APC, Wike’s influence began to face constraints, illustrating that political power dependent on perception and intimidation can be fragile.
Olajengbesi notes that Wike’s predicament is heightened by his dual position as both a useful ally and an outsider within the ruling party. While his support for Tinubu and his ability to destabilize opposition calculations have made him relevant at the federal level, his independence and confrontational style are increasingly perceived as a threat to party discipline and structure. As the ruling party prepares for the next political cycle, Wike’s influence risks erosion if it continues to undermine institutional hierarchy.
The opinion piece predicts several possible outcomes for Wike: gradual isolation, where his access and influence diminish quietly; neutralisation, where he retains office but loses political leverage; or forced realignment, requiring him to fully submit to party structures, sacrificing the independence that has defined his political brand. However, Wike’s experience and strategic acumen suggest he may yet adapt, potentially transitioning from territorial dominance to coalition management, balancing influence with accommodation.
Ultimately, Olajengbesi portrays Wike as a fascinating case study of power, strategy, and political survival, highlighting that his future depends not only on strength but on his capacity to navigate institutional politics without alienating the structures that sustain it. The piece underscores that in Nigerian politics, influence without institutional belonging is potent but precarious, and Wike’s next moves will determine whether his story ends in decline or reinvention.

Breaking: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Reaffirms Support for President Tinubu Amid Rivers APC Clash Ahead of 2027 Elections

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, emphasizing that his political structure in Rivers State is fully committed to the President. Wike made the statement on January 6, 2026, during ongoing consultations across local government areas in Rivers State. His declaration comes amid a public clash with APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru over party influence and local politics. Wike warned against interference in Rivers State, calling it a “no-go area” for outsiders. The tensions reflect deep divisions within the APC, particularly following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s defection from the PDP to the ruling party. Despite these challenges, Wike affirmed that his loyalty to Tinubu remains non-negotiable, reinforcing his influence over grassroots structures in Rivers State as a key factor in the party’s electoral strategy.

#NyesomWike #BolaTinubu #APC #RiversStatePolitics #2027Elections #PoliticalTensions #FCTMinister #NigeriaPolitics

Police Arrest Port Harcourt Pastor Over Alleged Plot to Assassinate FCT Minister Wike, Hunt Underway for Ex-Rivers SSG

Security operatives from the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) have detained Dr. Tombari Joseph Gbeneol, a medical doctor and pastor of Life Forte Chapel Church in Port Harcourt, over an alleged plan to assassinate FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The arrest followed the interception of a phone call between Gbeneol and former Rivers State Secretary to the Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, in which they allegedly discussed hiring Israeli nationals to carry out the assassination and seeking funding from Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Police confirmed Gbeneol is in custody, with investigations ongoing. Authorities are still searching for Danagogo, who reportedly went underground after the plot was uncovered. Security sources described the case as a grave national security threat.

FCT Minister Wike Warns APC National Secretary Basiru Against Meddling in Rivers State Politics

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has threatened APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, warning him to stop interfering in Rivers State politics. Speaking at a rally in Oyigbo, Wike accused Basiru of commenting on matters outside his jurisdiction, particularly concerning the N600 billion funds in Rivers State.

Wike cautioned Basiru against taking Rivers State’s support for President Bola Tinubu for granted and threatened to brief the President about the issue. He emphasized that anyone interfering with Rivers State affairs would face consequences, stating, “Anything you see, take it.”

The tension follows Basiru’s earlier criticism of an APC official who referred to Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara as a “so-called governor,” noting that elected offices must be respected regardless of political differences. Wike, however, remains determined to prevent Fubara from securing a second term in office.

Rivers State Secretary to Government Benibo Anabraba Resigns from PDP Amid Political Realignments

Benibo Anabraba, Secretary to the Rivers State Government, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), according to a resignation letter dated January 5, 2026. Addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ward 1 in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Anabraba described his departure as a personal decision while expressing gratitude for the political opportunities and exposure gained during his time in the party.

Although he did not publicly disclose his next political affiliation, sources suggest he is likely to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Anabraba’s resignation comes amid broader political shifts in Rivers State, following the defection of Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the PDP to the APC in December 2025, alongside 15 members of the state House of Assembly, including Speaker Martin Amaewhule.

This move reflects ongoing party realignments in the state as political actors position themselves ahead of future elections.

Deji Adeyanju Condemns Hypocrisy Over Nnamdi Kanu Rendition, Fubara Suspension and U.S. Abduction of Maduro

Nigerian human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju criticized what he called selective outrage among some Nigerians regarding international law and due process. He condemned the U.S. extraordinary rendition of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, stressing that illegal actions cannot be justified regardless of the target’s record of human rights abuses.

Adeyanju highlighted the inconsistency of Nigerians who previously praised the unlawful rendition of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya and supported the unconstitutional removal of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, yet now condemn similar actions by the U.S. He emphasized that due process and respect for international law must apply universally, warning that justifying illegal actions based on political convenience undermines justice and global law.



#DejiAdeyanju #Maduro #NnamdiKanu #Fubara #HumanRights #InternationalLaw #DueProcess #NigeriaNews #SelectiveOutrage

Wike Threatens To Reveal Details Of Agreement With Fubara

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned that he will make public the agreement he reached with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, if the governor fails to disclose it to the people of the state.

Rivers State Lawmakers Reject ₦100,000 Christmas Gift from Governor Fubara, Cite Unapproved Spending and Constitutional Violations

Rivers State House of Assembly members have rejected a ₦100,000 Christmas gift allegedly sent by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing it as unsolicited and unapproved. The lawmakers, loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike, returned the funds and stated that such expenditures violate constitutional provisions requiring legislative approval.

The Assembly accused Governor Fubara of consistently drawing from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account without authorization since taking office in 2023, despite warnings, court judgments, and separation of powers principles. They also warned civil servants against participating in what they described as unlawful financial practices.

The rejection highlights the ongoing power struggle between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State, which has intensified following the lifting of emergency rule in September 2025.

Rivers Head of Service Praises Gov. Fubara for Approving Christmas Bonus for Workers and Pensioners

The Head of Service, Rivers State, Dr. (Mrs.) Inyingi Brown on behalf of the workforce and pensioners, formally thanks His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, for approving and paying a Christmas bonus of ₦100,000.00 to all Rivers State Government employees and pensioners.

The gesture underscores the Governor’s unmatched benevolence, people-centred leadership, and humane disposition toward workers and senior citizens. Coming amid prevailing economic realities, the timely intervention will ease financial pressures and enhance the wellbeing of beneficiaries during the festive season. The workforce and pensioners express renewed morale and reaffirm their commitment to supporting the Governor’s development-driven agenda for Rivers State.

Wike Slams Rivers Governor Fubara Over ₦600 Billion Disclosure, Warns Nigerian Politicians Eye State Funds

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara over his public disclosure of ₦600 billion in the state’s coffers. Wike described the announcement as politically naïve and dangerous, arguing it has attracted interest from politicians seeking to profit from the funds rather than serve the people. He warned that such disclosures embolden political actors from other states and fuel “political 419” practices, where endorsements and appointments are traded for financial gain. Wike also dismissed recent visits and praises from national officials, insisting they were motivated by the newly revealed state funds.

Christmas: Governor Fubara seeks Peace, Tolerance and Progress.

Rivers state governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on residents of the state to exemplify the virtues of peace, tolerance and sacrifice which Christmas represents and be vigilant as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

On this sacred day, Governor Fubara enjoins residents to honour the Prince of Peace, whose life remains the eternal model of love, humility, sacrifice and compassion.

The governor in his Christmas message congratulates all residents in the state for witnessing what he called the season of hope, renewal, and thanksgiving.

Christmas, he notes, stands as a profound expression of God’s boundless love and His gift of peace to humanity.

The governor urged everybody to reflect deeply on these enduring values and allow them to guide their conduct towards one another.

Governor Fubara also added that regardless of individual faiths, let everyone uphold religious tolerance and recommit themselves to the noble responsibility of being one's brother’s keeper amid the socio-economic challenges.

The governor further called on residents to replace discord with dialogue while choosing understanding over division.

On security during the yuletide, Governor Fubara urged all residents to remain security-conscious, as safeguarding the state is a shared responsibility that begins with vigilance, cooperation, mutual respect and support.

Six Rivers State House of Reps Members Defect from PDP to APC Amid Party Crisis

Six lawmakers from Rivers State—Robinson Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Hart, Victor Obuzor, Blessing Amadi, and Felix Nwaeke—have officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), reducing the PDP’s Rivers caucus to just two members. Speaking on the floor of the House, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas attributed the defections to “divisions and unresolved political crises” within the PDP. The lawmakers cited internal party conflicts as the reason for switching allegiance to the APC’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” under President Bola Tinubu. The defections follow Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent move from PDP to APC, signaling a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.

#RiversStatePolitics #PDPDefections #APC #HouseOfRepresentatives #NigeriaPolitics

NSA Ribadu Leads Federal Delegation with Ministers of Works and Environment to Inspect Projects, Oil Spill Sites in Rivers State

National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the Ministers of Works and Environment, visited Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara as part of a high-level federal inspection of critical infrastructure and oil spill locations in Ogoniland. The delegation, which also included the Director-General of NOSDRA, engaged stakeholders to address environmental remediation, development, and security concerns in affected communities. Key sites visited include the East-West Road, Yorla Oilfield spill site, University of Environmental Technology, and K-Dere Hospital. The visit underscores renewed federal attention on Niger Delta oil-producing communities and peacebuilding initiatives.

Year-In-Review 2025: Peter Obi, El-Rufai, Fubara And Other Nigerian Politicians Who Lost Power, Influence And Political Ground

Nigeria’s political landscape in 2025 was marked by intense power struggles, elections, defections, and shifting alliances that reshaped the fortunes of several prominent politicians. While some leaders consolidated influence, others suffered major setbacks that weakened their political standing ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi endured a difficult year as his party failed to record meaningful victories in key bye-elections and the Anambra governorship poll, including losing his own polling unit. Labour Party’s Anambra candidate, George Moghalu, also struggled at the polls despite strong pre-election expectations. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced suspension, political isolation, and a forced realignment after a prolonged crisis that led to a six-month state of emergency. Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai equally lost ground as the ruling APC gained strength through defections, weakening his influence in Kaduna and nationally. The year-in-review highlights how these political losses have compelled affected politicians to reassess strategies as Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 elections.

Rivers Crisis Deepens as Governor Fubara Declares Himself “Number One” After APC Defection, Fires Back at Wike-Loyal Lawmakers

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has stirred fresh political controversy after declaring himself the “number one” person in the state following his defection from the PDP to the ruling APC. Speaking at an event in Port Harcourt, Fubara revealed that his APC membership form carries the number 001, which he said symbolises his position as the state’s leader. His remarks came amid renewed accusations from lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who alleged that the governor failed to honour agreements and misled the public about engagements with the House of Assembly. The declaration further escalates the long-running political battle between Fubara and the Wike camp, highlighting deepening tensions in Rivers State politics ahead of the 2027 elections.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang Defects from PDP to APC Ahead of 2027 Elections

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), announced at the APC national caucus in Abuja. The move strengthens APC’s dominance in the North-Central geopolitical zone ahead of the 2027 general elections. Sources say the defection follows internal strife within the PDP. While some APC members in Plateau opposed his entry fearing shifts in power dynamics, others welcomed it as a boost for the party. The PDP has not yet issued an official response. This defection aligns with a broader trend of prominent PDP figures moving to the APC, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.