Rivers Crisis: I Warned Fubara Against Betraying Wike — Fayose Recounts

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has revealed that he personally cautioned Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara against betraying Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Speaking on Friday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Fayose admitted he was surprised that the once-solid bond between the two political figures had collapsed into such a severe and public crisis.  

The former governor disclosed that he delivered this warning directly during Fubara’s inauguration ceremony in May 2023. Seated at the high table during the swearing-in, Fayose recounted how he sought Wike’s permission to pull the new governor aside for a private word of advice. He urged the incoming leader to remain loyal to his predecessor to avoid the political instability that often follows such fallouts.  

“I was on the high table when Governor Fubara was being sworn in. I told Wike that I wanted to speak to Fubara, and I warned him not to turn against you,” Fayose said. He reflected on the moment with regret, noting that at the time, he did not foresee the relationship spiraling into the “protracted political struggle” for control currently dominating the state.

Fayose’s comments come at a time of heightened tension in Rivers State, characterized by a split in the House of Assembly and fresh moves to impeach the governor. The rift has effectively polarized the state’s political structure, with loyalists on both sides fighting for dominance. Fayose expressed disbelief at the current situation, stating that the depth of the hostility was beyond his imagination.  

The ex-governor noted that while he had been outspoken about Wike’s “troublemaker” reputation in the past, he believed a peaceful transition was possible if agreements were kept. He had previously advised Fubara to “close his eyes completely” to certain provocations to maintain harmony. However, he now observes that the situation has deteriorated significantly despite various attempts at reconciliation.

The ongoing battle between the governor and his former mentor continues to generate widespread uncertainty across the oil-rich state. Political observers believe the feud has hindered governance, specifically regarding the 2026 budget and legislative functions. Fayose’s revelation serves as a reminder of the early attempts by external peers to mediate the relationship before the formal breakdown.  

Ultimately, Fayose suggested that the current deadlock requires more than just political negotiation, recently stating that “only fasting and prayers” might save the governor’s seat. As the impeachment proceedings move forward, the state remains on edge, awaiting the outcome of a crisis that Fayose once hoped his private warning would prevent.