Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has attributed the ongoing conflict between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to a battle for control within the state. Speaking during an interview on Channels TV's Politics Today, Fubara addressed the rising tension in Rivers, including the recent violence that saw the burning of two local government secretariats.
The governor disclosed that some individuals close to him have been targeted for arrest in connection with the unrest, further complicating the situation.
When asked to elaborate on the reasons behind the fallout with Wike, Fubara refrained from delving into specifics, stating, "Honestly, I won’t want to discuss this here; but for those who know the issue, it’s very simple—it’s about power control."
He suggested that certain individuals, possibly his predecessor, still sought to exert influence over the state's affairs. "Maybe there is somebody somewhere who still believes he is above and higher than the authority in the state," Fubara remarked, alluding to Wike's ongoing involvement in state politics.
Fubara stressed that his focus remains on governance, despite the challenges. "It’s just the issue of power. I don’t want to discuss it and I don’t want to join issues with that. I want to focus on governance and manage the situation as much as I can. That is what is important to me," he said.
When questioned about whether he had breached any agreements made with Wike, Fubara firmly denied the allegations. He stated, "I don’t think there is any understanding that I have not kept. There is no understanding we have that I have not kept. That is the truth."
Fubara appealed for peace and cooperation, urging all parties involved to put their differences aside for the good of Rivers State. "What I feel is that everyone should shelve their sword, even the minister, my oga. There is no need to destroy Rivers. He once ruled the state. Another person is there now. What you need is to give him support. After four or eight years, I will also leave. Another person will take the government."
In closing, he emphasized the importance of unity and support during the governance period, stating, "That should be the spirit. When it comes to election period, you can fight but now it’s time for governance. We need all the support."
This marks the latest development in the escalating tension between Fubara and Wike, as the battle for control over Rivers State continues to unfold.
