In a dramatic declaration that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's political landscape, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that his political career would be effectively over if the current Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, wins a second term in the 2027 gubernatorial election.
A Stark Declaration in Okrika
The former Rivers State governor made this startling revelation on Saturday, December 3, during a crucial stakeholders' meeting held in the Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers state. According to a report by The Cable, Wike framed the upcoming political battle in existential terms for his own future.
He told the gathering that a definitive decision had already been reached regarding the political direction for the state, drawing a clear line between support for President Bola Tinubu and opposition to Governor Fubara's ambition.
"I Will Not Allow Myself to Be Buried"
Wike's words were direct and left little room for interpretation. "We have made a decision as far as Tinubu is concerned. The other one (Fubara) — no way," he stated emphatically.
He then explained the grave personal consequences he foresees, saying, "Because if we make another mistake, then we will go and bury ourselves politically. I will not allow myself to be buried. I will not allow that mistake again."
Concluding his point with finality, Wike added, "So everybody should know we have made a decision." This public pronouncement marks a significant escalation in the ongoing and deeply public rift between the political godfather and his erstwhile protégé.
Implications for Rivers and National Politics
This statement is more than just political rhetoric; it is a strategic marker laid down nearly two years before the 2027 elections. It signals:
- A hardened battle line within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the broader political arena in Rivers State.
- Wike's assessment that Fubara's consolidation of power for a second term would permanently diminish his own influence.
- The beginning of an intense political mobilization period where alliances will be tested and forged ahead of the next election cycle.
The political feud between Wike and Governor Fubara has been one of the most prominent in Nigerian politics, stemming from a bitter fallout not long after Fubara took office. Wike's latest comments confirm that reconciliation is off the table and that the 2027 election is now framed as a do-or-die contest for his political survival.
All eyes will now be on Rivers State as the factions led by these two powerful figures prepare for a showdown that will undoubtedly have repercussions far beyond the state's borders, influencing the balance of power at the national level.
