Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, said in Nigeria that President Bola Tinubu is unlikely to remove the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, because of the political crisis involving Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Fayose made this known during a television interview aired on January 13, 2026, while reacting to the long-running power struggle in Rivers State and the ongoing moves against the governor.
Fayose explained that the disagreement between Fubara and his predecessor has continued to disturb political activities in Rivers State since late 2023. According to him, the crisis is rooted in a fight for control of the state’s political structure, including the party machinery and the State Assembly. He said this situation has weakened governance and created deep division within the ruling political camp in the state.
He stated that President Tinubu values Wike’s political strength and contribution more than Fubara’s position as governor. Fayose noted that Wike’s role as FCT minister and his ability to help the ruling party win elections have made him more useful to the president. He added that Wike’s performance in Abuja and his influence in Rivers politics continue to work in favour of the All Progressives Congress.
The former governor also pointed to recent political developments, saying Wike played a major role in helping the APC record victories in Rivers State local government elections. He added that upcoming elections in Abuja are also expected to favour the ruling party due to Wike’s involvement, which further strengthens his standing with the president.
Fayose’s comments came as the Rivers State House of Assembly began steps to remove Governor Fubara from office. Lawmakers accused the governor of serious misconduct, including pulling down the assembly complex, spending funds without approval, and refusing to comply with a Supreme Court decision on legislative independence. While the lawmakers denied acting on Wike’s instruction, the crisis has continued to raise tension in the state.
He also reacted to reports that Governor Fubara sought President Tinubu’s help over the crisis while the president was abroad. Fayose described the move as a sign of political weakness, saying the governor’s challenges could have been resolved through dialogue and humility rather than external intervention.
On national politics, Fayose dismissed claims that President Tinubu was responsible for the internal problems facing the Peoples Democratic Party. He said the opposition party’s troubles were self-inflicted and caused by internal fights and lack of unity, adding that the party’s division has made it vulnerable and ineffective.
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