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Rivers State Power Struggle Challenges Tinubu

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 7:21 GMT by legit

Port Harcourt, Nigeria - January 12th, 2026 - The ongoing power struggle between former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Governor Siminialayi Fubara, continues to dominate Nigerian headlines and presents a significant, and increasingly delicate, political challenge for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As highlighted by veteran Nigerian journalist Chuks Okocha, Tinubu finds himself in a precarious position, navigating a complex web of loyalty, political expediency, and the urgent need for stability within a crucial state.

The roots of the conflict are deeply entrenched in the transition of power following Wike's exit from office in May 2023. While Fubara was handpicked by Wike, the relationship has deteriorated sharply, reportedly stemming from disagreements over the direction of the state's policies and a perceived power vacuum left by Wike's departure. Accusations of undermining, intimidation, and attempts to destabilize Fubara's administration have been leveled by both sides, creating an atmosphere of intense animosity and uncertainty.

The Significance of Rivers State

Rivers State holds considerable strategic importance within Nigeria. Its vast oil and gas reserves contribute significantly to the nation's economy, and its location on the Niger Delta makes it vital for national security. Political instability in Rivers can have ripple effects throughout the region, impacting oil production, increasing the risk of social unrest, and potentially disrupting national economic stability. A protracted crisis, as some fear, could attract unwanted international attention.

Wike's Influence and Tinubu's Dependence

President Tinubu's predicament is amplified by the substantial role Nyesom Wike played in his electoral victory in 2023. Wike, a powerful and influential figure within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) until his recent political maneuvering, delivered crucial support and resources to the All Progressives Congress (APC) at a pivotal moment. Without Wike's backing - which included significant organizational efforts and mobilizing support in strategic regions - Tinubu's path to the presidency would have been significantly more challenging, if not impossible. This debt of gratitude creates a powerful incentive for Tinubu to appear supportive of Wike, even as the governor's actions contribute to political unrest in Rivers.

Fubara's Position and the Demand for Stability

Governor Fubara, on the other hand, is striving to establish his authority and govern effectively. He faces the difficult task of asserting his leadership while dealing with relentless pressure from Wike and his loyalists. Fubara's ability to deliver on promises of infrastructure development, improved governance, and economic growth for Rivers State is directly hampered by the ongoing political turmoil. The populace, increasingly frustrated by the instability, is demanding a swift and peaceful resolution.

Tinubu's Dilemma: A Balancing Act

As Okocha rightly points out, Tinubu's dilemma lies in finding a balance between honoring his political obligations to Wike and upholding his responsibility to ensure peace and stability in Rivers State. Openly siding with Wike could be perceived as endorsing destabilizing actions, alienating other governors and potentially inciting further unrest. Conversely, appearing to abandon Wike could jeopardize vital political alliances and potentially trigger retaliation from a powerful and influential figure.

Potential Resolutions and Future Outlook

Several avenues for resolution are being explored. Direct presidential intervention, mediated negotiations involving prominent political figures, and judicial intervention are all possibilities. However, the entrenched nature of the conflict and the personal animosity between Wike and Fubara suggest that a swift resolution will be difficult to achieve. The intervention of traditional rulers and respected community leaders is also being considered as a means of fostering dialogue and building trust.

Ultimately, President Tinubu's ability to navigate this complex situation will be crucial not only for the stability of Rivers State but also for the overall health of Nigerian politics. A successful resolution will require careful diplomacy, a willingness to compromise, and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. Failure to do so risks further escalating the crisis and undermining the credibility of the federal government.