Anderson Cooper Presents: The Political Drama Unfolding In Rivers State

Wike's Bold Advice to Ambode: A Tale of Political Loyalty

Back in 2018, Nyesom Wike, then the Governor of Rivers State, found himself in the national spotlight during an interview on The Osasu Show. It was a moment that would later echo through the corridors of Nigerian politics. Speaking candidly, Wike offered some hard-hitting advice to Akinwumi Ambode, the then Governor of Lagos State. He urged Ambode to stand firm against the influence of political godfathers, a term often associated with powerful figures like Bola Tinubu, who was widely regarded as Lagos' political godfather.

Wike’s words were clear and resolute. He told Ambode, “If it is correct that the godfather is against you, I will tell you to resist it. I will tell you to promote the interests of your state.” His tone was one of a leader who believed in the importance of prioritizing the welfare of the people over the whims of political heavyweights. This stance wasn’t just rhetoric; it was a call to action for governors across the country to rise above the shadow of godfatherism.

In the same interview, Wike didn’t shy away from condemning godfatherism outright. He declared, “Godfatherism is not good. It negates development. No more godfather politics in Rivers State. We are not in Lagos State. Rivers State will not accept godfatherism. My concern is to do well for Rivers State.” These were powerful words from a man who had himself risen through the ranks of Nigerian politics, often criticized for his own alleged ties to political patronage.

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However, despite Wike’s strong words, Ambode’s political journey took a turn for the worse. He failed to secure a second-term ticket from the All Progressives Congress (APC), a setback many attributed to his strained relationship with Tinubu. The fallout highlighted the complexities of Nigerian politics, where loyalty to party structures often trumps personal ambitions and public service ideals.

The Rift Between Wike and Fubara: A Mirror to Political Realities

Fast forward to the present day, and Wike finds himself embroiled in a bitter political feud with his own chosen successor, Siminalayi Fubara. This conflict is a stark reminder of the volatile nature of Nigerian politics and the fine line between mentorship and control. The rift began shortly after Fubara's inauguration in October 2023, when it became evident that the new governor was unwilling to be swayed by Wike’s influence.

Although Fubara was handpicked by Wike to lead Rivers State, their relationship quickly soured. Fubara resisted Wike’s attempts to maintain control over the state’s political machinery, sparking tensions that would escalate into a full-blown crisis. By October 29, 2023, the situation reached a boiling point when an impeachment attempt against Fubara was followed by the controversial demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex. Wike’s allies pointed fingers at Fubara’s camp, accusing them of orchestrating the chaos.

Attempts to broker peace between the two factions proved futile. In December 2023, a peace pact mediated by President Tinubu collapsed, with both sides accusing each other of breaching agreements. Wike claimed that Fubara had abandoned those who helped elevate him to power, while Fubara countered by accusing Wike of meddling in local affairs, including sensitive issues like chieftaincy titles.

The conflict reached its zenith on February 28, 2025, when the Supreme Court reinstated 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike, tipping the scales against Fubara. The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, accused Fubara of ignoring court orders, including one to present the 2025 state budget. On March 17, 2025, the Assembly issued a misconduct notice against the governor, further intensifying the political storm.

State of Emergency: Tinubu Steps In

With the situation spiraling out of control, President Tinubu intervened on March 18, 2025, declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. Citing the escalating political unrest and the potential threat to the region’s vital oil infrastructure, Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. To ensure stability during this period, he appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.

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Despite the gravity of the situation, the decision to impose a state of emergency was met with controversy. On March 20, 2025, the Senate and House of Representatives approved the declaration through a voice vote, a move that drew criticism from opposition groups. Critics argued that the decision lacked transparency and raised questions about the government's commitment to democratic principles during times of crisis.

As the political drama in Rivers State unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s governance. The balance between personal ambition, political loyalty, and the welfare of the people continues to be a delicate one, tested by leaders like Wike and Fubara. Only time will tell how this chapter in Nigerian politics concludes and what lessons it will leave for future generations.