Wike to APC National Secretary: Rivers politics not your turf

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, to steer clear of political affairs in Rivers State, describing the region as a “no-go area” for interference.

Wike issued the warning on Monday during a thanksgiving visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State. His comments followed a controversy sparked by remarks attributed to the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, who referred to Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara as a “so-called governor” during a separate engagement.

Basiru later described Giadom’s comment as unfortunate, stressing that the office of governor deserves respect regardless of political differences.

In response, Wike accused APC leaders of making reckless statements and urged Basiru and others to refrain from meddling in Rivers politics.

He also alluded to reports that N600 billion was left in the state’s coffers, warning political figures against exploiting the situation for personal or partisan gain.

“Take this message to your National Secretary, leave Rivers State alone,” Wike said, adding that those who had attempted similar interference in the past “burned their hands.”

Wike cautioned that support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda from Rivers should not be taken for granted, and called on political actors to exercise caution in their public statements.

Meanwhile, local stakeholders, including the Renewed Hope Ambassador for Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, have raised concerns about perceived development shortfalls in parts of the state, urging equitable distribution of resources and attention to local needs.