Former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP) and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has made revelations regarding the influence by former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, over the current governor, Sim Fubara.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that in a statement released to media outlets in Port Harcourt, Eze claimed that Wike went to great lengths to ensure Fubara succeeded him, suggesting that Fubara is under Wike’s unlimited control.
Eze said that crucial decisions and significant governance matters are still being orchestrated by Wike.
“Fubara must realise that he bears the responsibility and accountability for every action taken on behalf of the state since assuming office on May 29, 2023, until such time when the courts will annul his illegitimate reign,” Eze said.
Eze further highlighted that Wike remains immune from questioning regarding the affairs of the state under the current government.
“It is widely known that Wike has reappointed several commissioners who served under him, allowing them to continue their roles alongside Sim Fubara, who lacks independent decision-making capabilities,” Eze added.
Eze also noted that Tammy Danagogo, who previously served as Secretary to the Government (SSG) under Wike’s eight-year tenure, has been reinstated and sworn in as SSG, while Emeke Woke, Wike’s former Chief of Staff, has been demoted to a commissioner—changes all carried out at Wike’s directive. Fubara’s personal assistants were also appointed by Wike.
Financial transactions within the government now require Wike’s knowledge and approval, Eze claimed. Additionally, Wike determines the allocation of funds to each local government from the federal allocation received by the state. Wike and Fubara share the monthly security vote, and Wike determines the monthly remuneration for the temporary governor.
Eze expressed concern that Fubara is trapped due to the reappointment of key figures from Wike’s previous administration, especially the appointment of Chief Chidi Amadi, a former Obio-Akpor Local Government PDP Chairman, as Chief of Staff. Eze sees this as a strategic move by Wike to retain control over the governance of Rivers State, indirectly undermining the political influence of the Ijaws, who previously held power through former governors Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and Nyesom Wike.
Eze believes that Fubara, despite being a mere figurehead without the courage to exercise the true powers of the office, should confront Wike’s desperate tactics and assume full control of the government during his limited time as governor. Eze warned that ignorance will not excuse Fubara when called upon to account for his actions during his brief tenure.
