A significant rift has emerged between Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and lawmakers loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The pro-Wike lawmakers failed to attend a thanksgiving service held by Governor Fubara to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Garrison, Port Harcourt.

He said, “I can’t say for sure, you know. Maybe in the coming days we will know why. But I’m not worried because it’s just like a husband-and-wife issue.

“You know, when Nyesom Wike was governor here, he suspended some local government chairmen, about three of them or so, for not showing up at an event. So how come these current ones didn’t come? What do you think would have happened to them if it was under Wike, when they didn’t even have a say of their own?”

He added, “But let’s give all of them, both the Assembly members and the local government chairmen, the benefit of the doubt and wait till October 1st, Nigeria’s Independence anniversary proper, and see what happens.”

A source close to the lawmakers said despite the public declaration of peace between the governor and Wike, the pro-Wike camp has allegedly resolved not to attend public functions with Fubara until he distances himself from the three lawmakers loyal to him and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, a former factional speaker.

The source added, “Beginning Monday, the Governor is expected to make some changes in action and in words to show he has truly reconciled with the FCT Minister.”

Background of the Rift
The absence of the 27 lawmakers and local government chairmen at the service suggests a deepening divide between the two camps. According to a source close to the lawmakers, the pro-Wike group has allegedly resolved not to attend public functions with Governor Fubara until he distances himself from three lawmakers loyal to him and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.

Governor’s Response
An ally of Governor Fubara expressed concerns over the development, stating that it “are not funny” and hinting that “all may not be well” between the two camps. The official drew parallels to Wike’s past actions as governor, where he suspended local government chairmen for failing to attend important state functions.

Implications of the Rift
The rift between Governor Fubara and the pro-Wike lawmakers may have significant implications for the state’s governance and politics. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the two camps will navigate their differences and work towards resolving their issues.¹