The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has voiced his disappointment regarding the presidential decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Wike shared his views during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, stating that the emergency declaration was not part of his preferred solution to the current political turmoil.
“I am not pleased with the state of emergency,” remarked the former governor of Rivers.
Last month, President Bola Tinubu declared an emergency in the state, citing ongoing political turmoil and rising security issues, including recent pipeline blasts.
The President suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all House of Assembly members for six months, deeming the action “inescapably necessary” in light of security assessments.
Also Read: Women Support Group calls for the Reinstatement of Gov Fubara
In their absence, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas as sole administrator to manage the state’s affairs until the situation is resolved — a decision that has ignited significant debate nationwide.
During the media briefing, Wike, the former Governor of Rivers, expressed that he preferred the complete removal of Fubara, stating: “As a politician, I am not satisfied with the Emergency Rule declared in Rivers State. I wanted the total removal of the Governor. However, for the state’s welfare, the President made the right choice to avoid chaos in the region.”
Related: Wike Backed by Olayinka: No Forgiveness Sought by Fubara
He acknowledged that the issue is currently in court but emphasized the importance of honesty, stating, “The Governor was no longer in position. It is not my job to make it easier for him. As a politician, my focus is not to provide him comfort, and that is the nature of power dynamics.”
Wike and Fubara have been in conflict since Fubara assumed the governorship. The discord between the two originates from a battle for dominance over the state’s political and structural assets.
This rivalry also impacted the state House of Assembly, where 27 suspended members switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress. Moreover, the dispute resulted in the rise of factional speakers and a parallel legislative assembly.
