Rivers Ijaw Congress Declares Support for Wike, Withdraws Backing for Fubara
The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has formally withdrawn its support for Rivers State Governor, Siminilayi Fubara, and declared full allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in a development that further deepens the political realignment in the state.
Allegiance Shift Announced in Okrika
According to Punch, the declaration was made on Saturday in Okrika Local Government Area during a “thank you” visit by Wike to the community. The announcement comes amid the prolonged political dispute between Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, and his successor, Governor Fubara — a rift that reportedly began less than six months after Fubara assumed office.
Akahi News gathered that the move represents another major defection of loyalty towards Wike’s political camp, following the reported collapse of the structure of a faction of the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Fubara.
‘Ijaw People Are Not Ungrateful’ — Sekibo
Speaking at the event, the chairman of the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress, Senator George Sekibo, described the conflict between Fubara and Wike as “very unfortunate” but insisted that the Ijaw people remained grateful to those who supported their political rise.
According to reports, Sekibo recalled Wike’s instrumental role in backing Fubara’s emergence as governor, noting that the governor initially enjoyed widespread support across Rivers State.
“Please don’t look at him and think we are all ungrateful people. Ijaw people are very grateful people,” Sekibo reportedly said.
“That is why we abandoned him and said we will follow you. You have done so much for the Ijaw people in Rivers. Whatever you say we should do, is what we will do.”
He further assured Wike of the unwavering support of the Ijaw people while reaffirming their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Local Leaders Reaffirm Loyalty to Wike
Also speaking, the Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Akuro Alfred Tobi, reportedly described Wike as his “political godfather,” crediting him for supporting several sons and daughters of Okrika in securing elective positions and political appointments.
Similarly, the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Stewart, who spoke on behalf of Okrika women, praised Wike’s record of supporting women in politics, describing it as unprecedented.
Wike Hints at 2027 Political Decisions
In his response, Wike thanked the people of Okrika for their continued support and loyalty to President Tinubu, whom he described as a leader that fulfils promises. He urged the community to continue backing individuals with integrity and proven character.
During a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, Wike reportedly hinted that key decisions regarding the 2027 elections had already been taken, adding that details would be communicated later through appropriate channels.
Observers note that the endorsement by the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress could significantly reshape political calculations in Rivers State as alignments ahead of future elections continue to evolve.
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