Rivers State Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of 2027 Elections

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 Rivers State Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of 2027 Elections

Rivers State, Nigeria — 


Political tensions in Rivers State between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike intensified in late December 2025, signaling a contentious lead-up to the 2027 elections.

Lawmakers Reject Governor Fubara’s ₦100,000 Christmas Bonus

On December 30, 2025, the Rivers State House of Assembly, dominated by Wike loyalists and led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, returned ₦100,000 credited to their accounts as a Christmas/Yuletide bonus, citing constitutional concerns.

The bonus, directed by Governor Fubara, was deemed "unsolicited, unapproved, and unconstitutional", as it bypassed legislative approval.

Enemi Alabo George, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, emphasized adherence to the Constitution and separation of powers in all public financial matters.

Lawmakers immediately reversed the transfers back to the state treasury.

The Assembly contrasted this with civil servants who received bonuses through proper channels and highlighted a pattern of unauthorized withdrawals from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund by Fubara since 2023, despite warnings and court rulings.

The House has adjourned until January 26, 2026, noting that Governor Fubara has yet to present the 2026 budget or submit commissioner nominees for approval.

The rejection underscores deepening rifts as the pro-Wike Assembly asserts its oversight authority over the executive branch.

Wike Issues Warning on “Automatic Ticket” for 2027

During visits to local government areas, including Khana and Gokana, on December 30, 2025, Nyesom Wike warned that political positions are earned, not guaranteed.

Without naming Fubara directly, Wike stated:

"Your ticket is not automatic. You have to earn the ticket... We will not make a mistake again."

He stressed that defections to the APC or alignment with President Bola Tinubu do not automatically secure re-election.

APC South-South Vice Chairman Victor Giadom highlighted some areas, like Gokana, as “no-go zones” for Fubara without Wike’s endorsement.

Wike called for unity under Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, downplaying party divisions.

These statements are widely interpreted as a direct challenge to Fubara’s re-election ambitions, amid ongoing disagreements over state finances and compliance with prior agreements.

The Rivers political crisis, which previously prompted a state of emergency (lifted in September 2025), shows signs of persisting into 2026, with both sides maneuvering for control ahead of the elections.

Sources: Punch Newspapers, The Cable, Leadership, Politics Nigeria, Channels TV (reports as of December 30-31, 2025).

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