Wike Alleges “Political 419” Scramble Over Rivers’ N600bn Surplus
In a sharp critique of current political dynamics in Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has alleged that politicians are positioning themselves to exploit the N600bn recently revealed to be in the state’s coffers. Speaking to members of the Rivers State House of Assembly on Saturday evening, Wike claimed that the public disclosure of these funds—left behind by the former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), after a six-month emergency rule—has attracted “political 419” operators and opportunists.
Wike argued that the announcement of such a significant balance was a strategic blunder that “opened the door” to individuals seeking personal gain rather than the state’s welfare. He stated:
“Given the experience in Nigerian politics, Nigerian politicians like Rivers money. I can tell you that. Go and study it. Nigerian politicians like Rivers money. If you want to make money in Rivers today, I don’t know how you made the mistake of announcing that there is N600bn. That mistake you made has triggered the interest of some politicians from other states; I know them.”
The “Abuse-for-Cash” Strategy
The Minister further alleged that attacking him has become a currency for these politicians to ingratiate themselves with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration to access the funds. Wike claimed that many prominent visitors to the state are privately angling for resources while publicly pledging loyalty to the governor, who recently defected from the PDP to the APC.
“They will now tell somebody here, ‘this Wike enough is enough,’ and they collect. ‘Don’t worry, Wike, his own time is finished,’ and they collect. So for you to be able to suck part of that N600 and something billion, you must say Wike’s time is over.”
Background of the N600bn Controversy
The controversy originated in November when Speaker Martin Amaewhule disclosed that Vice Admiral Ibas had left N600bn in the treasury upon the lifting of the emergency rule on September 18, 2025. Amaewhule questioned why these funds were not being used for critical infrastructure and teacher recruitment.
Governor Fubara subsequently confirmed the amount, clarifying that while he met N600bn upon his return to office, he had already left N300bn in the coffers prior to the suspension of his government in March. The governor has dismissed all allegations of mismanagement, promising to provide a full account of his stewardship within the next six months.
Political Endorsements or Opportunism?
Wike dismissed recent high-profile visits and endorsements—including those from federal delegations—as part of a pattern of “political jobbing.” He alleged that even invoking President Bola Tinubu’s name has become a tactic for extracting benefits, noting that anyone who visits now claims “the President is happy with you” just to secure a payout.
Closing his address, Wike praised the Amaewhule-led Assembly for maintaining the peace pact brokered by the President, emphasizing that regardless of the current friction, established agreements and political integrity must be upheld.
