Fresh political tension may be brewing in Rivers State following comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which suggest that the long-running political rift in the state is far from over.
Wike’s remarks have raised questions about the sustainability of the widely publicised peace arrangement involving him and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
His latest statements point to a possible renewed political confrontation as the new year approaches.
The former Rivers governor spoke on Saturday during a meeting with political stakeholders from Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas.
He disclosed that political activities would resume fully from January 2026, a declaration that immediately stirred reactions across the state.
The meeting took place shortly after a thanksgiving service organised by Chibudom Nwuche, Chairman of the South-South Development Forum. The event was held in Nwuche’s hometown, Ochigba community, in Ahoada East LGA.
While addressing his supporters, Wike took a swipe at unnamed political actors he accused of reaping benefits from the sacrifices of others during the 2023 general elections.
He alleged that some individuals failed to show courage when political tension was high, especially during the campaign period that led to the emergence of President Bola Tinubu.
According to the FCT minister, many who now openly associate with the President did not publicly declare their support when it mattered most. He insisted that he and his political camp stood by Tinubu at a time when it was risky to do so.
Wike said, “In that 2023, it was difficult for so many people to come out to say, vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“But we did it, when it was tough for people to say on your mandate we stand. We stood firm and said on your mandate we stand.
“And to the glory of God, we stood and on your mandate we stand today is very strong.
“So you are the ones who made the mandate to be strong as far as Rivers State is concerned.”
He questioned the sudden loyalty of those now praising the President, asking where they were during the peak of the electioneering period. He noted that such individuals neither spoke openly nor mobilised their supporters in support of Tinubu in 2023.
Wike assured his followers that their efforts and sacrifices would not be ignored or wasted. However, he refrained from mentioning names while making the allegations.
Reaffirming his political readiness, Wike told the crowd that the time for political engagement was approaching. “And we are going forward from January next year. Let me inform you, we will start politics. Let me inform you, we will start what, politics,” he declared.
The minister also spoke extensively on the issue of trust and political agreements. He stressed that he does not believe in agreements that cannot be respected or implemented.
“You know me, I believe in agreement is agreement. Agreement is what, agreement,” he said.
“Anything you know you cannot do, don’t say it. Don’t enter into it.
“Nobody can use us to say let me say yes I agree, later. No, you can’t do that. Whatever you have agreed in the morning, you must agree in the night.”
Wike added that those making loud political declarations now only did so because others had already laid the groundwork earlier. He maintained that firmness at critical moments defines true loyalty.
The FCT minister noted that he has never concealed his political stance and described himself as one of the most criticised politicians in the country. He attributed this to his refusal to compromise on agreements and principles.
Despite the political undercurrents, Wike reassured the people of Ahoada of his continued support and appreciation. He urged them not to be worried, saying they had no reason to fear and that events would unfold at the appropriate time.
He also reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu, stating that his political alignment remains unchanged.
The thanksgiving ceremony attracted several prominent political figures. Those in attendance included Senator Magnus Abe, Senator Philip Aduda, Senator Wilson Ake, and Senator Olaka Wogu.
Others present were ambassador-designate Aaron Chukwuemeka, OCJ Okocha, Ferdinand Anabrabra, and other notable political associates.
Recall that, Politics Nigeria previously reported the fragile political truce reached between key power blocs in Rivers State following months of legislative paralysis, street protests, and federal intervention.
However, recent statements from major actors have continued to raise questions about the durability of that arrangement and the future of peace in the state.
