Wike Accuses Odili of Backing Fubara to Oppose Tinubu

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili of instigating Governor Siminalayi Fubara to defy President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This accusation adds another layer to the ongoing power struggle between Wike and Fubara, once allies but now embroiled in a fierce rivalry over political control of Rivers State.

Failed Peace Accord

The dispute between Wike and Fubara dates back to 2023 when both camps signed an eight-point peace agreement brokered by President Tinubu and other stakeholders, including Odili, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. However, the agreement quickly unraveled, with Fubara alleging he was coerced into signing it. Odili, for his part, accused Wike of prioritizing personal interests over the state’s welfare.

Speaking at an event in Port Harcourt on December 28, Odili praised Fubara for resisting Wike’s alleged attempts to dominate Rivers State politics. “Governor Fubara has faced unnecessary challenges but stood firm against efforts to turn the state into a private estate,” Odili said, commending Fubara’s governance since assuming office.

Wike Fires Back at Odili

In response, He denied the allegations, insisting that he had always acted in the state’s best interest. Speaking at a reception for Rivers stakeholders, Wike said, “I am the best governor Rivers State has ever produced. How can I be accused of turning the state into my personal estate when my efforts have been focused on making it a medical hub for South-South Nigeria?”

Wike also accused Odili of undermining the peace process by encouraging Fubara to disregard Tinubu’s directives. “Odili, instead of ensuring the peace deal was implemented, encouraged Fubara to disobey the President. Rather than seek further reconciliation, he fueled discord,” Wike claimed.

Political Realignments and Anti-Party Allegations

Wike reiterated his role in opposing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general elections. “I deliberately worked against Atiku Abubakar and Uche Secondus. I told PDP I wouldn’t support Atiku because I am not a second-class citizen. My support was for a southern presidency, and I have no regrets supporting Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.

Wike emphasized his unbroken record of political victories and urged Nigerians to support Tinubu, highlighting the President’s tough but necessary decisions for the country’s progress.

Magnus Abe’s Criticism

Meanwhile, former Senator Magnus Abe criticized politicians backing Governor Fubara, accusing them of doing so to undermine Wike. Abe revealed that during the last election, many Rivers politicians, including himself and Wike, engaged in anti-party activities to support Tinubu over the PDP’s presidential candidate.

“In Rivers State, everyone did anti-party during the election. Even the current governor didn’t support the PDP presidential candidate. We all aligned with Tinubu, and I have no regrets about my decision,” Abe said.

As the rift between Wike and Fubara deepens, it underscores the complex interplay of loyalty and rivalry in Rivers State’s political landscape. With accusations flying on all sides, the battle for influence in the state shows no signs of abating, raising questions about the long-term impact on governance and development.