The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Ajibola Basiru, to stay out of political affairs in Rivers State. Wike issued the warning during a visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, where he was receiving appreciation from residents for his past contributions.
The call to Basiru follows comments he made involving the National Vice Chairman, South-South of APC, Victor Giadom, regarding Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Giadom had referred to Fubara as a “so-called governor” during Wike’s earlier visit to Gokana Local Government Area and suggested that Fubara’s political success would depend on Wike’s approval.
Reacting to the situation, Wike told Giadom to instruct the APC National Secretary to keep away from Rivers politics for his own safety. He also cautioned anyone trying to interfere in the state’s affairs over alleged funds in the treasury to stop, describing Rivers as a “no-go area” for outsiders.
Wike reminded the public that Rivers people had supported President Bola Tinubu in 2023 without outside pressure, insisting that current meddling by politicians is unwelcome. He made clear that the state’s support for Tinubu is a settled matter and should not be challenged.
During the visit, Wike received gratitude from Oyigbo residents for his contributions to the area. The local government chairman, Okechukwu Agara, assured him of continued support, while Felix Nweke, representing Tai, Oyigbo, and Eleme Federal Constituency, noted that development had slowed since Wike left office as governor in 2023.
Desmond Akawor, chairman of Renewed Hope in Rivers State, described the lack of development in some areas as unfortunate but expressed optimism that the situation may improve with the upcoming change in leadership in 2027.