The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, urging him to refrain from interfering in Rivers State politics and to exercise caution with his public statements.
Wike made the remarks during a “thank-you” visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, where he alleged that the APC had received a portion of the N600 billion reportedly left in the state’s coffers. His comments followed statements by the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), who reportedly referred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as “the so-called Governor” during a visit to Khana/Gokana Local Government Area, claiming that Fubara could not secure a second term without Wike’s backing.
Basiru described the remarks as “unfortunate,” stressing that Fubara’s position as governor should command respect regardless of political differences.
“The office of the governor is an exalted position, and whoever occupies it must be respected,” Basiru said in a Facebook post on Sunday.
In response, Wike warned that Rivers State is a “no-go area” for political interference. He advised Basiru to learn from those who had previously meddled in the state’s politics and cautioned against making reckless comments.
“Let me warn those who come to Rivers State. You know about our N600 billion, yet you come here, collect, and speak recklessly. Take this message to your National Secretary: leave Rivers State alone. Don’t take our support for Mr. President for granted. Be careful with your statements,” Wike said.
He added, “If your hand burns, don’t blame me. This state is a no-go area. Take what you have taken and stop making unnecessary comments.”
Meanwhile, Renewed Hope Ambassador for Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, raised concerns over stalled development in Oyigbo since Governor Fubara took office. He called for the local government to receive its fair share of the N600 billion left in the state account.
“We elected Governor Fubara expecting meaningful development in Oyigbo, but progress has stalled. The only tangible benefit we have received is a commissioner slot, which was given to me. Beyond that, nothing substantial has reached our people,” Akawor said.
He added, “Oyigbo must not be excluded from the allocations. If N40 billion is distributed across groups, Oyigbo must get its fair share. We are asking for fairness, not favors.”
