According to Vanguard reporting on February 14, 2026, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a surprise public acknowledgment of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, asserting that his emergence as governor would have been impossible without Wike’s mentorship. Speaking at a ceremony where he received the “New Telegraph Man of the Year Award,” Fubara dedicated the honor to the FCT Minister, describing him as the one who “discovered” him and provided the platform to achieve political prominence.
The governor’s remarks come at a time of high political tension in Rivers State, characterized by a long-standing standoff between his loyalists and those of the Minister. Fubara emphasized that regardless of current interpretations of their relationship, he remains grateful for the initial support that shaped his career. This gesture is being viewed by some as a potential olive branch, though the Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Rivers State.
Validating reports from The Punch and Daily Post confirm the Governor’s statement during the Friday evening event. The Punch noted that “the governor’s public appreciation was a shift from the recent hostile rhetoric,” while Daily Post quoted Fubara directly: “I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it… without him, I wouldn’t be standing here as governor.”
Echotitbits take: This development suggests a tactical pivot in the Rivers political crisis. While it may not signal a full reconciliation, Fubara’s acknowledgment of Wike’s role could be an attempt to lower the political temperature ahead of the 2027 cycle. Watch for whether this leads to a reduction in legislative and judicial skirmishes in the state.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/rivers-crisis-fubara-remains-my-political-son-despite-rift-wike/, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
Tag: Nigerian Governors
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Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara Credits Nyesom Wike for Political Rise Despite Rift
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Governor Yusuf Delays Highly Anticipated Move to APC for Further Consultations
In an update published by Daily Post, the scheduled defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been postponed. Originally slated for January 5, 2026, the official ceremony is now expected to take place on January 12.
The delay reportedly stems from the Governor’s desire to hold additional high-level meetings with key stakeholders and state legislators who remain skeptical of the move. Sources suggest that a recent meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja played a pivotal role in the strategic decision to allow more time for internal party alignment.
Vanguard confirmed the political shift, noting that ‘Kano’s political landscape remains in flux’ as the Governor seeks a smoother transition. Premium Times also reported on the development, stating that the ‘PDP describes Mutfwang’s earlier defection as a betrayal,’ highlighting the growing tension surrounding cross-carpeting governors in the region.
Echotitbits take: Governor Yusuf is clearly treading carefully to avoid a legislative crisis or a ‘Kankwaso backlash.’ If he successfully moves to the APC, it will effectively consolidate the ruling party’s grip on the North-West ahead of the next election cycle.
Source: Independent — https://independentpost.ng/29528-2/
Independent January 3, 2026Photo Credit: Independent