The battle lines for the 2027 governorship race in Rivers State may have been drawn with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, firing an early and decisive shot.

In a blunt and characteristically combative declaration, the former governor ruled out any possibility of backing his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for a second term.

Wike spoke during a pre-convention meeting with some Rivers APC delegates at his Abuja residence, where he made it clear that no pressure, inducement or political manoeuvring would make him repeat what he described as the “mistake” of 2023.

Quashing speculations about a possible reconciliation or future alliance, Wike said he had learned hard lessons from his decision to support Fubara’s emergence as governor and would not be swayed again.

He said: “No amount of blackmail, no amount of intimidation will make me repeat the same mistake I made before.

“If anybody is bringing money to you, it is your business. I don’t know how long I will live on this earth, but I will not make that mistake again.”

The minister, who has repeatedly expressed regret over his role in Fubara’s emergence, blamed the current political crisis in Rivers on what he described as betrayal and ingratitude.

The once-close political allies have since fallen out, plunging the state into prolonged instability marked by factional battles and institutional tensions.

Wike also issued a stern warning to politicians allegedly using his name to advance their governorship ambitions ahead of 2027.

He cautioned that such individuals were acting on their own and should not drag him into their political calculations.

He said: “Don’t go and entangle yourself with anybody saying he wants to run for governorship.

“Some people are parading themselves, forming groups – Ijaw groups, Ogoni groups, Ikwerre groups – using my name. Continue to group yourselves, but I see all of you and I’m marking you.”

He urged members of his political family to remain cautious, safeguard their resources and avoid being misled by opportunistic politicians.

Wike declared: “My fight is not an easy one. I don’t need to win, but I will make sure that before you come out, there is no remedy. So be careful. Hold your money and pray for God to choose you.”

Taking a swipe at those allegedly funding online campaigns against him, Wike maintained that he was unfazed by opposition and even thrived in political battles.

He said: “If you want to fight me, it is okay. Without a fight, I can’t survive.

“But I want somebody who, when he leaves office, will still appreciate those who helped him, not someone who will bring in new people to fight us.”

The minister also praised members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, for what he described as their resilience and loyalty.

According to him, the lawmakers chose to endure hardship, including going without salaries, rather than betray their political convictions.

Shortly after Wike’s remarks, Bomah Iyaye distanced himself from reports suggesting he had declared interest in the governorship race or secured the minister’s endorsement.

In a statement, Iyaye described the reports as inaccurate and misleading, insisting that he remained focused on his responsibilities at the NDDC.

“My attention has been drawn to reports circulating on social media suggesting that I have declared an ambition for the office of Governor of Rivers State and have been endorsed by the Honourable Minister,” he said. “These reports are not true and do not reflect my position.”

He clarified that he had neither made any formal declaration nor received endorsement from Wike or any other political figure.

“I remain fully committed to my duties as Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the NDDC, working with stakeholders to advance sustainable development in the Niger Delta,” he added.

Also, uncertainty continues to surround Governor Fubara’s political future, particularly regarding his intention to seek a second term.

His silence has fueled speculation that he may have shelved re-election plans.

However, a source close to the governor dismissed such claims, saying Fubara would soon make his position known.

The aide, who spoke in confidence, maintained that Fubara remained a strong political force in the state and enjoyed considerable goodwill within the APC’s national leadership.

According to the source, the governor is still being considered a viable candidate to fly the party’s flag in 2027, despite the ongoing rift with his predecessor. (The Nation)

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