The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has voiced strong criticism against the ongoing dispute between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State. The conflict revolves around control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State. The NRM has described Wike’s actions as unjust and is calling for a resolution to this political feud.
Isaac Udeh, the National Chairman of the NRM, shared his concerns during an interview in Abuja on Sunday. Udeh expressed disappointment over the political rivalry between Wike and Fubara, who used to be allies. He believes that the ongoing crisis in Rivers State is largely due to the deteriorating relationship between the two leaders. This internal conflict has stirred significant concern within the PDP and among the people of Rivers State.
Udeh’s remarks follow a recent public appeal from Chief Edwin Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum. Clark has called for Wike’s expulsion from the PDP. In an open letter addressed to the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, Clark urged the PDP leadership to take decisive action against Wike to preserve the party’s integrity and maintain its role as a strong opposition force. Clark’s call underscores the gravity of the situation and the pressure on the PDP to address the issue.
During the interview, Udeh urged Wike to step back and allow Governor Fubara to lead the PDP in Rivers State without interference. He pointed out that when Wike was governor, his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi, did not interfere with Wike’s control of the party, despite holding a ministerial position at the time.
Udeh argued, “Wike should leave Fubara alone. When Wike was the governor and the leader of the party in Rivers State, his predecessor, Amaechi, did not try to control the party. Now that Wike’s term as governor has ended, he should not continue to assert himself as the party leader in the state. This is both abnormal and unacceptable.”
Udeh also emphasized that Governor Fubara has demonstrated strong leadership and is working diligently for the benefit of the people of Rivers State. He commended Fubara’s performance and encouraged him to continue his efforts.
Udeh advised Wike to focus on his responsibilities as Minister of the FCT and stop disrupting Fubara’s governance. He concluded by calling on the people of Rivers State to fully support their young and vibrant governor, Fubara, to ensure continued progress in the state.
