Reporting by the Nigerian Observer (via Leadership/The Nation feeds) indicates that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has issued a stern warning to the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, to refrain from interfering in the internal politics of Rivers State. Speaking during a visit to Oyigbo, Wike cautioned that the support given to President Tinubu should not be taken for granted and described the state as a ‘no-go area’ for external meddlers. The friction arose after Basiru reportedly warned APC leaders in Rivers to stop ‘disrespecting’ Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike countered by challenging ‘greedy politicians’ who he claims are only interested in the state’s treasury now that ‘food is ready,’ referencing the political stability and resources he helped secure. The political spat was also tracked by The Nation and Daily Post. The Nation reported that ‘Wike accuses Rivers political leaders of misleading Fubara,’ while Daily Post noted the APC scribe’s call for ‘Wike’s resignation as minister’ to face Rivers politics squarely.
Echotitbits take: The ‘cold war’ in Rivers has now turned into a multi-party proxy battle. Wike’s warning to the APC national leadership shows he is still the primary power broker in the state, despite his cabinet role in Abuja. Watch for whether this internal friction forces the presidency to mediate between its minister and the party’s secretariat.
Source: TheCable – https://www.thecable.ng/your-hands-will-burn-wike-warns-apc-national-secretary-basiru-to-steer-clear-of-rivers-politics/ January 6 2026
Photo Credit: TheCable
