By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s turbulent Rivers State political feud deepened on Tuesday as former governor and current Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike publicly rebuked his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that the very forces attacking him today were responsible for Fubara’s rise to power.
“The dog barking now is what made you governor. I am now here to correct the mistake,” Wike said, in one of his strongest public criticisms yet of the governor he helped install in 2023.
The remark, captured in a video widely circulated on Tuesday and published by Native Reporters, adds a new layer to the long-running political crisis that has pitted Wike and his loyalists against the governor in an increasingly bitter struggle for control of the state’s political machinery.
A feud that refuses to fade
The rift between both men, once close allies, erupted months after Fubara assumed office. The crisis spiralled into a power struggle involving the state assembly, contested impeachment attempts, and failed peace negotiations brokered by President Bola Tinubu.
Wike’s latest comments signal that the dispute is far from over, despite repeated calls from civic groups and community leaders urging both camps to de-escalate tensions.
Rising political temperature
Observers say the continuous exchange of accusations risks further destabilising a state already grappling with political uncertainty. Analysts also warn that the escalating rhetoric may shape Rivers State’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
Governor Fubara has yet to publicly respond to Wike’s latest remarks.
Background
The feud has dominated national discourse for over a year, with both men insisting they remain committed to the state’s development while accusing each other of sabotage.
As political tensions deepen, residents and civil society groups continue to call for restraint and genuine reconciliation.
