Bori, Rivers State – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned the people of Rivers State against repeating what he described as past "political mistakes" as the 2027 general elections approach. The statement, made during a thank-you visit to Khana Local Government Area on December 30, 2025, signals an early intensification of political maneuvering in the oil-rich state, still recovering from a turbulent year marked by a six-month state of emergency earlier in 2025.
Addressing a large crowd of supporters in Bori, the headquarters of Khana LGA, Wike declared that formal political activities would commence in January 2026. "We won’t make mistakes again. The first one you have done – have they said thank you? So, if you make another mistake, that means they will drive you out," he stated, without directly naming Governor Siminalayi Fubara. However, observers widely interpreted the remarks as a veiled criticism of Fubara's leadership and the circumstances surrounding his 2023 election victory, which Wike played a pivotal role in securing.
Wike emphasized unity behind President Bola Tinubu, noting that partisan divides between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have collapsed into a "Renewed Hope family" in Rivers State. He praised the Ogoni people of Khana for their consistent support, highlighting federal projects like road infrastructure and educational institutions benefiting the area under the Tinubu administration.
The visit comes amid a protracted political rift between Wike and Fubara, his former protégé. The feud, which erupted shortly after Fubara's inauguration in May 2023, centered on control of the state's political structure. It escalated dramatically in March 2025 when President Tinubu declared a state of emergency, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly for six months, citing governance paralysis and security concerns, including pipeline vandalism.
The emergency rule ended in September 2025, allowing Fubara to resume office. Since then, both men have defected to the APC—Fubara recently, amid efforts to align with the federal government—while Wike remains influential despite staying formally in the PDP. Recent defections by pro-Wike lawmakers and local council chairmen to the APC have shifted power dynamics, fueling speculation about 2027 governorship ambitions.
Wike's comments have reignited debates over Fubara's re-election prospects. Supporters of the governor argue his performance merits a second term, while Wike loyalists insist on "correcting" perceived errors from 2023. Analysts predict heightened mobilization, with ethnic considerations—particularly in Ogoni and other riverine areas—playing a key role.
Local leaders in Khana, including council chairman Dr. Thomas Bariere, reaffirmed loyalty to Wike and Tinubu, pledging continued support. Women and youth groups also expressed gratitude for federal interventions in the area.
As Rivers State navigates post-emergency governance challenges, including budget disputes and assembly tensions, Wike's early signaling underscores the stakes for 2027. The state, a major oil producer, remains critical to national politics, with its 2027 outcomes likely influencing broader alliances.
This development reflects ongoing realignments, with Wike positioning himself as a kingmaker while cautioning against decisions that could alienate federal backing. Residents and observers await January 2026, when full-scale politicking is expected to begin.
