I Was Told To Make Real Ijaw Man Governor, Not Someone From Opobo – Wike Slams Fubara

Former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has criticized the leadership of his successor, Siminalayi Fubara, questioning the decision to back someone from Opobo instead of a candidate from the Kalabari Ijaw ethnic group. Wike made these remarks while addressing political developments in the state.

Reflecting on the process that led to Fubara’s emergence as governor, Wike stated, “Out of our benevolence, we allowed it. I said, gentlemen, we are working as a team. But when efforts are made to bring people together, you expect appreciation.”

He further explained the controversy surrounding the choice of governor: “When I supported this governor, there were objections. People argued that if you’re talking about the Ijaws, the governorship should go to the Kalabaris and not Opobo. That was the issue.”

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Wike also expressed frustration over perceived disloyalty among some political allies. “Those who fought me and opposed this decision are now parading themselves around him, benefiting from his administration and taking his money,” he added.

The remarks shows ongoing tensions within Rivers State’s political landscape and underscore ethnic dynamics that continue to influence governance in the region.