The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cautioned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, to avoid interfering in Rivers State politics and to be careful with his public statements. Wike issued the warning during a “thank-you” visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, alleging that the APC had received part of the N600 billion left in the state’s coffers. The minister’s remarks followed claims by the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), who reportedly referred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as “the so-called Governor” during a visit to Khana/Gokana Local Government Area and suggested Fubara could not win a second term without Wike’s influence. Reacting to the comment, Basiru called it “unfortunate” and stressed that Fubara’s position as governor deserved respect, regardless of political differences. “The office of the governor is an exalted position, and whoever occupies it must be respected,” Basiru said in a Facebook post on Sunday. In response, Wike warned that Rivers State is a “no-go area” for political meddling. He advised Basiru to learn from others who had previously tried to interfere in the state’s affairs and cautioned against making careless statements. “Let me warn those who come to Rivers State. You know about our N600 billion, yet you come here, take, and speak recklessly. Take this message to your National Secretary: leave Rivers State alone. Go and learn from those who tried before. Don’t take our support for Mr. President for granted. Be careful with your words,” Wike said. He added, “If your hand burns, don’t blame me. This state is a no-go area. Take the one you have taken and stop making unnecessary comments.” Meanwhile, Renewed Hope Ambassador for Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, expressed concern over stalled development in Oyigbo since Fubara assumed office. He urged that the area receive its fair share of the N600 billion left in the state account. “We elected Governor Fubara expecting meaningful development in Oyigbo, but progress has stalled. The only tangible benefit we’ve received is a commissioner slot, which was given to me. Beyond that, nothing substantial has reached our people,” Akawor said. He added, “Oyigbo must not be excluded from the N600 billion allocations. If N40 billion is distributed across groups, Oyigbo must get its fair share. We are asking for fairness, not favors.”
