Tensions escalated in Rivers State politics on Monday, January 6, 2026, as APC National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike publicly traded accusations over control and influence within the ruling party in the state. The dispute follows Basiru’s endorsement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which comes amid Wike’s opposition to Fubara’s 2027 re-election bid.
Senator Basiru, speaking via the official APC X handle, asserted that Wike has no authority to interfere in APC affairs in Rivers State, noting that the minister is not a member of the party. He emphasized that his responsibilities as National Secretary extend nationwide and are not confined to his home state of Osun.
In response, Wike, during a visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, warned Basiru to “leave Rivers State alone,” arguing that outsiders should not meddle in the state’s politics or influence decisions regarding the use of ₦600 billion in state funds. Wike described Rivers as a “no-go area” for political interference and reaffirmed his opposition to Governor Fubara’s re-election.
The conflict stems from comments made by APC National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Victor Giadom, who said Fubara’s political success depends on Wike’s support. Basiru subsequently defended Fubara and cautioned party leaders against undermining the governor.
The political tension traces back to a long-standing rivalry between Wike and Fubara. Fubara officially defected from the PDP to APC on December 9, 2025, joining several Rivers State lawmakers who had also switched parties. The move positioned him as a key APC figure in Rivers ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Observers note that Wike retains significant influence in Gokana Local Government, while Fubara has consolidated broader support among APC leaders. The disagreement has elicited reactions from various stakeholders:
- APC National Secretary Basiru insisted Wike lacks authority to interfere in party matters, calling him a “non-member” and rejecting allegations linking him to state funds.
- Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition for United Political Parties, praised Basiru’s stance, accusing Wike of undermining governance.
- Dr. Chidi Lloyd, former Rivers APC chairman, and FCT ally Chimelem Wodi defended Wike, noting that only the President can direct ministerial resignations.
- Niger Delta activist Ann Kio-Briggs criticized Wike’s threats, describing them as dangerous to Rivers State and its citizens.
- Former Lagos APC spokesman Joe Igbokwe called for unity, describing the clash as “an unnecessary distraction.”
Some political analysts suggest Wike is attempting to block Fubara’s re-election while asserting influence over APC structures in the South-South, though these remain speculative.
With the 2027 Rivers State governorship elections approaching, the standoff is expected to intensify, with party leaders and stakeholders closely monitoring the moves of Wike, Fubara, and the APC leadership, particularly regarding internal endorsements and grassroots mobilization.