Isaac Fayose, public commentator and brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, has shed fresh light on the political crisis rocking Rivers State, involving former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
According to Fayose, the disagreement between both leaders goes beyond loyalty or governance and is largely rooted in a struggle for control and political influence, particularly over Rivers State’s financial resources. He claimed the crisis deepened when Governor Fubara began asserting independence rather than operating under the shadow of his predecessor.
“Rivers Can’t Be Delivered Like Property”
Fayose dismissed claims that either Wike or Fubara can single-handedly determine the political future of Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections. He argued that Rivers voters are politically aware and cannot be “handed over” by any individual or faction.
Peter Obi and the 2027 Equation
Linking the Rivers crisis to national politics, Fayose pointed to former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as a major factor reshaping political calculations ahead of 2027. He stated that Obi’s potential return to the ballot would significantly weaken traditional power structures and reduce the influence of political godfathers in the state.
Political Mobilisation Under Fire
Fayose also criticized political tours and rallies by the rival camps, describing them as elitist displays that lack genuine grassroots connection. According to him, real political strength will be measured at the polls, not through sponsored crowd appearances.
A Crisis With Wider Implications
The Wike–Fubara fallout, once seen as an internal political misunderstanding, has now evolved into a major test of power, loyalty, and democratic choice, with implications that extend beyond Rivers State to the national political landscape.
As 2027 approaches, Rivers State is shaping up to be a critical battleground whose outcome could influence Nigeria’s broader political direction.
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