The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday launched a blistering attack on Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that the same political forces now dismissed as “barking dogs” were instrumental in Fubara’s emergence as governor.
Wike spoke during a thank-you visit to the Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, against the backdrop of an intensifying political rift in the state. The visit took on added political significance as the Rivers State chapter of the Ijaw People’s Congress publicly announced its withdrawal of support for Governor Fubara and declared its allegiance to the former governor.
Responding to comments attributed to Fubara, Wike said those being ridiculed today were the very actors who worked to secure the governor’s victory. “That same dog barked and helped make you governor. This dog that is barking now was barking when people did not even know who the person was. That same dog barked and helped make the person governor immediately,” he said, adding, “It is one of fate that the same dog is barking again. I wish you good luck.”
The former Rivers governor told the gathering that political alignments in the state were shifting, with former adversaries now working together. He insisted that there were no longer “no-go areas” in Rivers’ politics, noting that unity among his supporters would correct past political mistakes.
“We are not talking about a party; we are talking about the real Hope family. All of us have decided to work together. We will not make the mistake we made last time. We are here to correct that mistake,” Wike said.
He dismissed claims that his political camp lacked electoral strength, arguing that political success was driven by organisation and mobilisation rather than speculative figures. “Some people say, ‘They can only deliver two to ten per cent.’ So what is political advantage?” he asked, assuring supporters that they would mobilise effectively when required.
Wike also used the occasion to push back against personal attacks, defending his academic and political credentials while dismissing his critics as lacking electoral relevance. He cited his legal training, status as a Life Bencher and recipient of the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger, insisting that repeated electoral victories set him apart from his detractors.
The FCT minister rejected allegations that he was behind the legal or political challenges facing some opponents, noting that some cases predated any influence ascribed to him. He questioned claims that he masterminded prosecutions that occurred years earlier, describing such accusations as attempts to deflect personal responsibility.
Explaining the purpose of his visit, Wike said he was in Okrika to appreciate loyalty and reaffirm ties with supporters, warning that financial resources alone could not guarantee electoral victory. “Money cannot solve all problems. Whoever is assuring you that shouting about your mandate will automatically give you victory is not correct,” he said.
The political undertone of the visit deepened when the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress formally announced its decision to abandon Governor Fubara. The chairman of the congress, Senator George Sekibo, described the feud between Wike and Fubara as unfortunate but said the Ijaw people would not be ungrateful.
“Please don’t look at him and think we are all ungrateful people. Ijaw people are very grateful people. That is why we abandoned him and said we will follow you,” Sekibo said, pledging the group’s loyalty to Wike and President Bola Tinubu.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Akuro Tobin, described Wike as his political godfather, saying the minister had supported many sons and daughters of the area into elective and appointive positions. Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Stewart, speaking on behalf of Okrika women, praised Wike’s support for women and prayed for his continued success.
In his closing remarks, Wike thanked the people for their support for President Tinubu, whom he described as a leader who keeps his promises, and urged them to continue backing individuals of proven character. He also paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, commending the monarch for promoting unity among his people.
Wike hinted that a decision had already been taken regarding the 2027 elections, saying details would be disclosed at the appropriate time, but appealed to the traditional ruler to steer clear of partisan politics. “It is not going to be business as usual. Allow us to play our game, and if there is any problem, call us to settle,” he said.
