“Call Your Minister Wike and Tell Him to Allow Gov Fubara to Work” – Bode George Urges President Tinubu

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, to allow his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to govern the state without interference.

The power struggle between Wike and Fubara has intensified since the handover of the PDP’s political structure to Wike, who also reportedly holds significant influence over the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. This has led to mounting tension, particularly following the local government elections held on Saturday, where the Action People’s Party (APP) won 22 out of 23 local government areas.

Chief Bode George expressed concern over the escalating crisis, warning that if unchecked, it could spiral into a larger conflict reminiscent of the 1962-1966 Western Region crisis, which contributed to Nigeria’s first military coup. In a statement, George urged President Bola Tinubu to step in and advise Wike to allow Governor Fubara to perform his duties and serve the people of Rivers State.

“Now that the people of Rivers have expressed their civic rights by voting in the local elections, it is time for Wike to allow Governor Fubara to focus on delivering the dividends of democracy,” George said. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the state, given its strategic role as a gateway to the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

The political tussle, some believe, is linked to early strategizing for the 2027 elections. However, George argued that it is too soon for such calculations and that Rivers’ governance should not be compromised for political ambitions.

George called for calm and urged Wike to give peace a chance, reminding him that “nobody stays in office forever.” He noted that just as Wike was supported during his tenure, Fubara deserves the same opportunity to lead without interference. He also warned of the broader implications of instability in Rivers, not just for Nigeria but for the wider West African region.

With local council elections concluded, George appealed to Wike and President Tinubu to prioritize the stability and progress of Rivers State.