Still rivers run deep

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn nine commissioners loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom…

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn nine commissioners loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, into the State Executive Council (SEC). The commissioners had in December 2023 resigned their appointments during the political crisis that engulfed the state after Governor Fubara fell out with his predecessor Nyesom Wike over the control of the state’s political structure. Peace, however, gradually returned to the state after President Bola Tinubu intervened at the height of the crisis, directing the governor to reabsorb the commissioners who resigned.

Ordinarily, this “return” would signal the end of the crisis or rivalry between Fubara and his former principal Wike. However, public statements indicate that the president’s intervention is a mere stop-gap measure, especially from the latter. Wike will attempt to control the state by proxy, given how his relevance in federal politics is tied to his control of the political “structure” in his home state. But this situation is unsustainable, and we believe this is the calm before the inevitable storm. With Tinubu brokering a peace deal and constraining Wike’s excesses, Fubara holds a possible reelection loyalty to Tinubu, who will also be up for re-election in 2027. The potential spiralling of the conflict into the street or ethnic violence seems temporarily averted; however, the return of the pro-Wike commissioners provides the basic guarantee that this is not the last of the feud, which might be reignited ahead of the 2027 polls. The recent reinstatement has also reignited concerns about the ability of the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to govern independently. While the move, brokered by President Tinubu, brought a temporary ceasefire to the political feud, questions linger about its long-term impact on the state’s governance and Fubara’s political future. His predecessor’s influence already overshadowed Fubara’s ascension to power. Public perception often questions Fubara’s ability to make independent decisions, fearing Wike’s continued control through the reinstated commissioners. Additionally, the commissioners’ loyalty to Wike raises concerns about potential divided loyalties within the executive council. Will they prioritise Fubara’s agenda or remain beholden to their former boss? This internal conflict could lead to policy paralysis, hindering the implementation of crucial initiatives and delaying progress on key issues affecting Rivers State. Wike could potentially undermine Fubara’s initiatives by wielding influence through the reinstated commissioners, creating an environment of instability and hindering the state’s development. Such political manoeuvring could ultimately cost Fubara his seat in the next election. Amidst the political drama, the true concern lies with the Rivers State people.. Their needs and aspirations for improved governance, infrastructure, and socio-economic development must not be overshadowed by political power struggles. Fubara’s ability to deliver on these crucial aspects of governance will be significantly hampered if he remains entangled in the Wike-imposed constraints. For the sake of Rivers State’s progress and the well-being of its citizens, Fubara needs to demonstrate his ability to govern independently. This requires building a strong, independent team, engaging in open and transparent communication, and delivering campaign promises to regain public trust and confidence. Only by taking decisive steps to assert his independence and deliver effective governance can Fubara break free from the shadow of Wike and ensure a brighter future for the people of Rivers State.