In a move that solidifies his political alignment ahead of the next general elections, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly declared his total and unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential contest. This declaration comes amidst escalating internal tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) concerning control and influence in the volatile political landscape of Rivers State.
Local Consultations and a Firm Declaration
Wike made his position clear on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, while providing updates on his ongoing political tours across Rivers State. Through a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the former governor detailed his movements, stating his team had been in Oyigbo and Ogu-Bolo Local Government Areas (LGAs) and would proceed to Akuku-Toru and Degema LGAs.
He emphasized the localized nature of the politics but left no room for ambiguity regarding national allegiance. "Here, it is local politics, and our support for Mr President is total," Wike asserted, confirming that his entire political structure in the oil-rich state is committed to President Tinubu's cause.
Clash with APC Leadership Exposes Party Rifts
The minister's reaffirmation of loyalty is set against a backdrop of a public spat with the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru. The conflict centers on Wike's deep involvement in Rivers State politics despite serving as a federal minister.
On Monday, January 5, Basiru challenged Wike to resign from his ministerial portfolio, accusing him of being overly preoccupied with Rivers politics. This followed a stern warning from Wike, who had earlier cautioned the APC scribe against meddling in the state's affairs. "Carrying your hands to Rivers State, if they burn, don't say I burnt it. I can challenge anybody; this state is a no-go area, whether you like it or not," Wike had stated defiantly.
This dispute has laid bare significant divisions within the ruling party's hierarchy. The APC's South-South National Vice-Chairman, Victor Giadom, has openly sided with Wike, declaring him indispensable for any electoral success in Rivers. "To win anything in this state, you must go through Wike," Giadom affirmed.
Basiru, however, criticized this stance, rebuking party leaders for using derogatory language against the state's governor and undermining the authority of elected officials.
The Fubara Factor and the 2027 Battleground
Complicating the APC's internal dynamics is the strained relationship between Wike and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The political crisis between the former allies has spilled into the APC following Governor Fubara's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in December.
Wike has opposed Fubara's re-election bid, alleging the governor violated a prior political agreement. He has also dismissed recent commendations of Fubara's performance by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who reportedly conveyed the President's satisfaction.
As political realignments intensify, Rivers State is firmly established as a critical flashpoint and battleground for the 2027 elections. The struggle for control of the state's formidable grassroots structures and Wike's influential political machine is shaping a major power contest within the APC.
Despite the mounting internal friction, Wike has drawn a clear line, making his support for President Tinubu a non-negotiable pillar of his political strategy, even as he battles to maintain supremacy in his home state's turbulent political arena.
