I Am No Longer Your Leader–Fubara’s Declaration Raises Fresh Questions Over Wike’s Political Control

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has continued to attract political attention following his decision to publicly distance himself from the position of political leader within his camp, amid his renewed relationship with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

According to a report published by Vanguard on Sunday, November 1, 2026, Fubara made the declaration on October 27 during a political rally organised by the Rainbow Coalition at Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt. The gathering was organised to introduce candidates preparing to contest various positions in the 2027 general elections.

At the event, the governor presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) flag to Ogundu Kingsley Chinda, who was introduced as the coalition’s preferred candidate for the Rivers State governorship election. However, attention shifted to Fubara’s remarks when he asked supporters to stop addressing him as their political leader, explaining that the reconciliation had established a common leadership structure.

The declaration has generated different reactions among political stakeholders, particularly those who previously supported Fubara during his disagreement with Wike. Their political dispute had plunged Rivers State into a prolonged crisis, eventually prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in March 2025.

Their reconciliation reportedly followed discussions held between August 16 and October 7, 2026, involving political stakeholders, lawmakers, local government chairmen and other influential figures. The agreement reportedly included arrangements for the return of three lawmakers associated with Fubara and opportunities for his supporters in the next administration

However, public commentator Franklin Uket expressed concerns that the arrangement could allow Wike to maintain considerable influence over the state’s political structure. Paramount Ruler HRH Ubokikwan Gabriel Ogbologwung and Ijaw elder statesman Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe also questioned the implications for Fubara’s supporters.

Meanwhile, former lawmaker Prince Ogbonna Nwuke argued that political compromises could be necessary to restore stability, while PANDEF President Professor Godknows Igali maintained that Fubara had the freedom to determine his leadership position.

As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, attention remains on how the reconciliation will reshape Rivers State politics and the relationship between both political camps.

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