Rivers: Ijaw People’s Congress Withdraws Support for Fubara, Endorses Wike

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has formally withdrawn its support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, marking a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape.

The declaration was made on Saturday in Okrika Local Government Area by the group’s chairman, George Sekibo, during Wike’s ongoing appreciation tour of the area.

Sekibo described the political rift between Fubara and Wike as regrettable but maintained that the Ijaw people remain appreciative of Wike’s political influence and past actions. He recalled Wike’s role in backing Fubara, an Ijaw indigene, for the governorship, a move he said received broad support across Rivers State.

He stressed that the group’s decision was driven by gratitude, insisting that the Ijaw people were not unthankful. According to him, the congress resolved to align with Wike in recognition of what it described as his contributions to the political advancement of Ijaw people in the state.

Sekibo further pledged the group’s loyalty to both Wike and President Bola Tinubu, assuring that the Ijaw Congress would stand by leaders it believes have supported their interests.

Also speaking at the event, Okrika Local Government Chairman, Akuro Tobin, openly described Wike as his political benefactor, crediting him with facilitating opportunities for many residents of the area to secure elective and appointive positions. He assured that the people of Okrika, including youths and women, remain firmly behind Wike and President Tinubu.

Representing Okrika women, the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Linda Stewart, commended Wike for what she described as exceptional support for women’s empowerment and offered prayers for his continued success.

Responding, Wike thanked the people for their support and praised President Tinubu as a leader who fulfils his commitments. He encouraged residents to continue supporting leaders with integrity and a proven record of performance.

During a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, Wike commended the monarch for promoting unity within the community. He hinted that a clear position on the 2027 general elections would be unveiled in due course, while urging the traditional ruler to remain neutral. He assured that his political camp would handle its affairs responsibly and seek dialogue where disputes arise.