Rivers Crisis: Presidency stands with Fubara, says Wike fully compensated

Tolulope Oke

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, stressing that former governor Nyesom Wike has already been “adequately compensated.”

The clarification comes amid impeachment proceedings against Fubara in the Rivers State House of Assembly and escalating tensions between the current governor and his predecessor.

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Policy Communication, told Channels Television’s Hard Copy programme that the APC leader in Rivers must be allowed to govern without interference.

“I agree with the national chairman that Governor Fubara is the leader of the APC in Rivers State. Wike is not a member of the APC, so he cannot speak for the party,” Bwala said. “He may be regarded as a leader within the PDP, but the APC leader is Governor Fubara.”

Addressing concerns over Wike’s influence at the federal level, Bwala said: “Wike has been adequately compensated. The president believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of Nigeria’s interest. President Tinubu gives latitude, but once you cross the line, you will know.”

On the Rivers cold war, Bwala emphasized that the impeachment process must adhere to the law and that court orders stopping the move are being respected. “Nobody should prevent Fubara from governing,” he said.

The presidential aide concluded that Tinubu’s position reflects his commitment to party discipline, constitutional order, and democratic stability across the country.