By Deborah Nnamdi
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly criticized Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, describing him as “a bad child” who lacks gratitude, while declaring that his political “rainbow coalition” will dominate all elective positions in the state in the 2027 elections.
Wike made the remarks during a “thank you” visit to Asari-Toru Local Government Area as part of his ongoing tour of the 23 local government areas of Rivers State to appreciate supporters who stood by him and President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general election.
The former governor explained that the rainbow coalition refers to a political arrangement involving loyalists across the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He cited the last local government elections as evidence of its strength, claiming that candidates aligned with him won 20 of the 23 councils, while the PDP secured only three.
Wike also boasted that he exercises influence over the state leadership of both the APC and PDP, insisting that political loyalty and accountability remain the backbone of enduring alliances in Rivers State. He added that the coalition would play a decisive role in shaping the state’s political direction after President Tinubu.
The FCT minister accused Governor Fubara of cancelling an employment scheme for 10,000 youths initiated during his tenure as governor and of taking credit for projects he said were substantially executed under his administration.
According to Wike, he paid about 70 per cent of the cost of the Ahoada–Omoku Road and the Emohua–Kalabari Road before handing over power. He recalled awarding major road projects to construction firms, including Julius Berger and Setraco, and making significant financial commitments to ensure their completion.
Wike said the cancellation of the youth employment programme was unjustifiable, stressing that continuity in governance was essential for development. He maintained that mistakes could only be resolved through accountability and sincere correction, not propaganda or political battles.
