Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has refuted claims of a personal conflict with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, asserting that his real adversaries are politicians attempting to manipulate the governor.
Speaking to BBC Pidgin, Wike maintained that there was no feud with Fubara, whom he described as a protégé.
“He’s my boy, my son. I’m not fighting him. My concern is with those trying to claim what they haven’t worked for,” he explained.
Wike added that his opponents, now facing setbacks, had been pushing Fubara into unnecessary conflict.
The discord between the two has persisted since 2023, leading to political unrest in Rivers State.
In response to the crisis, President Bola Tinubu declared emergency rule, suspending Fubara for six months.
Tinubu installed retired Navy chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as interim administrator, who subsequently dismissed all officials appointed by Fubara.
On potential 2027 presidential ambitions, Wike addressed rumours suggesting he might seek the PDP ticket if zoned to the South. He dismissed such claims, stating that he remained committed to Tinubu.
“I won’t run. Why challenge someone I support?” Wike asked. He expressed confidence in Tinubu’s chances, claiming no opposition figure was strong enough to unseat him. “They talk about zoning—let them zone it first. We’ll figure things out later.”
Wike also confirmed that Fubara recently paid him a peace visit.
“Yes, he came with two governors, both from the APC, and one other person. He said he wanted peace, and I agreed.”