APC Engages FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to Resolve Rivers State Political Crisis

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed that party leaders are actively engaging Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in efforts to resolve the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. 

The party cited Wike’s significant influence in the state and his support for the ruling party’s 2027 agenda, despite not being a registered APC member.

APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, revealed this development during an interview on TVC’s Beyond The Headlines, emphasizing Wike’s pivotal role in Rivers State politics and his backing of President Bola Tinubu.

“Wike is an avowed supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, even though he is not a member of the APC. Rivers State is critical to the success of President Tinubu, and he will be engaged in the ongoing amicable resolution process,” Basiru said. He added that the consultations are confidential, noting that not all measures would be disclosed publicly.

The political crisis erupted after the Rivers State House of Assembly requested the Chief Judge to constitute a panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. The lawmakers, in a unanimous vote, insisted that the impeachment process would continue, citing alleged attempts by the governor to intimidate the legislature.

In response, the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt issued an interim order preventing the Chief Judge from accepting the impeachment notice against Governor Fubara and his deputy. Chief Judge Simeon Amadi declined a request to form a seven-member judicial panel, citing the court order.

Additionally, the High Court has adjourned indefinitely a suit filed by Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu challenging the impeachment proceedings initiated by the Speaker and 26 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Basiru reassured Nigerians that the crisis would be resolved amicably, with no winners or losers, and promised that details of the resolution would be shared publicly in the coming days.

Addressing criticisms that the APC is an elite-focused party, Basiru stated that the growing membership reflects the party’s political ideology and commitment to the people.

“Our tradition is socio-democratic and pro-people. We are working to strengthen the APC by mobilizing and conscientizing Nigerians on why it remains the pan-Nigerian political party of choice. Large numbers of Nigerians are joining the party as a result,” he said.