Rivers Council Chairperson Issues Public Apology Following Verbal Attack on Governor Fubara

Less than a week after a video surfaced of Samuel Nwanosike, the chairperson of Ikwerre Local Government Area in Rivers State, hurling insults at Governor Siminalayi Fubara, he has issued a public apology, attributing it to a reprimand from his political mentor, Nyesom Wike.

In the viral video, Nwanosike had described Governor Fubara as “foolish” and “naïve,” even accusing him of orchestrating kidnappings in Abuja to influence political changes. However, in a subsequent video addressing a political gathering, Nwanosike expressed regret, extending his apology to “the people of Nigeria.”

Nwanosike clarified that Nyesom Wike had called him to order, stating, “It is wrong for you to speak to a Governor in that manner, whether he’s 18 years old.” Despite the apology, he made no direct mention of Governor Fubara.

The Ikwerre council chairperson, known for his affiliation with Wike, has been a vocal critic of Fubara since the governor’s fallout with his predecessor. Tensions between Wike and Fubara have escalated since last October, with Nwanosike repeatedly filmed insulting Governor Fubara despite ongoing efforts to implement a peace deal brokered by President Tinubu.

This recent apology comes amid the backdrop of political turmoil in the oil-rich state, where conflicting interests have strained the relationship between key political figures. Nwanosike’s public retraction follows a pattern of provocative remarks, raising questions about the stability of the political landscape in Rivers State.

The verbal attacks on Governor Fubara by Nwanosike have been a recurring theme, reflecting the deep-seated tensions within the political arena.