A new political storm is brewing in Rivers State as an aide to Governor Siminalayi Fubara has accused the state’s Sole Administrator, Dr. Ibas, of deliberately inciting a crisis following the appointment of a loyalist of the former governor, Nyesom Wike. The aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns that the appointment could lead to further division within the state’s leadership, especially given the existing political tensions surrounding Fubara’s administration.

The accusations are the latest twist in the ongoing political saga in Rivers, where Fubara’s leadership has been under scrutiny, and the influence of Wike’s political loyalists continues to shape key decisions in the state.

Accusations of Crisis Incitement

The controversy began with the recent appointment of a new political appointee in the state government. The individual, who is known to be a close ally of former Governor Wike, was given a significant role in the administration despite the fact that Fubara, Wike’s successor, is believed to be attempting to consolidate his power and reduce the influence of the former governor’s loyalists in his government.

In a strongly worded statement, Fubara’s aide accused Ibas of stoking political unrest by facilitating the appointment of Wike’s loyalist at a time when the state’s political atmosphere is already tense. The aide further claimed that Ibas’s actions are threatening the unity of the state’s ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and could jeopardize the peace in the region.

“Dr. Ibas, in his role as Sole Administrator, has acted in a manner that is not only divisive but also counterproductive to the efforts of Governor Fubara to maintain stability and focus on governance,” the aide stated. “By promoting an individual with deep ties to former Governor Wike’s camp, Dr. Ibas is intentionally fanning the flames of crisis and division within the state.”

The aide’s comments have stirred up political debates across Rivers State, with many questioning the motives behind the appointment and whether it could further complicate Fubara’s ability to govern effectively.

Political Tensions Under Fubara’s Leadership

Since taking office earlier this year, Governor Fubara has faced significant challenges in managing the power dynamics left by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Wike, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a former governor of the state for eight years, wielded considerable influence both within the state and nationally. Fubara, who was a key ally of Wike during the latter’s tenure, has found himself walking a fine line between maintaining the support of Wike’s loyalists and establishing his own political identity.

Fubara has made efforts to distance his administration from the Wike camp, seeking to assert his authority over the state. However, this has been complicated by the continued influence of Wike’s political network, which remains strong in key positions within the government and the PDP in Rivers.

The appointment of Wike’s loyalist to a prominent position has raised suspicions among some of Fubara’s supporters, who fear that the former governor’s influence may be undermining the new administration’s ability to move forward with its policies.

Dr. Ibas’s Role in the Controversy

Dr. Ibas, who currently serves as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has become a focal point in the controversy due to his involvement in the appointment of Wike’s ally. As Sole Administrator, Ibas has significant influence over key administrative decisions in the state, and his actions are being closely scrutinized by both Fubara’s supporters and critics.

Ibas, a long-time ally of Wike, was appointed to his current role during the final months of Wike’s administration. His continued involvement in the state’s political decisions has raised questions about whether he is aligned with Fubara’s leadership or if he remains loyal to Wike’s faction.

In response to the accusations, Dr. Ibas has defended his actions, stating that his decisions are in the best interest of Rivers State and its people. He has denied any intent to create division or incite crisis, stressing that the appointment was made based on merit and the need for experienced leadership.

“I am committed to the progress and development of Rivers State,” Ibas said in a brief statement. “The decision to appoint individuals to positions of authority is based on their qualifications and ability to contribute to the growth of the state, not on personal loyalty to any individual.”

Despite Ibas’s defense, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that his actions may be undermining Fubara’s efforts to establish control over the state’s leadership.

The Growing Rift Between Fubara and Wike’s Loyalists

The appointment controversy has added fuel to an already simmering political rift between Fubara and Wike’s loyalists. While Fubara has largely attempted to maintain a cordial relationship with the former governor’s faction, his supporters are increasingly concerned about the influence Wike’s camp still holds over state politics.

The recent developments have raised the stakes for Fubara, who faces growing pressure from within his own party to consolidate power and assert his independence from Wike’s influence. Some of Fubara’s allies have warned that if he does not act decisively to limit Wike’s factional influence, it could weaken his political position and compromise his ability to govern effectively.

“We elected Governor Fubara to bring change and stability to Rivers State, but this constant interference from Wike’s camp is making it difficult for him to chart his own course,” one source close to Fubara’s administration stated. “He needs to take control of the situation before it spirals out of hand.”

Public Reaction and Possible Consequences

The political tensions in Rivers State are not only confined to the state government but are also being keenly observed by the public. Many Rivers residents are frustrated by the constant power struggles between political elites, which they argue distract from the pressing issues facing the state, such as unemployment, infrastructure development, and security.

“We are tired of the back-and-forth among politicians,” said a Rivers State resident. “We want our leaders to focus on delivering good governance, not fighting over appointments and power.”

As the political drama unfolds, observers are closely watching how Fubara handles the crisis and whether he will take steps to assert his authority over the administration. The coming days and weeks will likely determine whether the situation in Rivers State will escalate further or if a resolution can be reached to quell the rising tensions.

Conclusion

The accusations against Dr. Ibas by Fubara’s aide over the appointment of a Wike loyalist have underscored the ongoing political struggle within Rivers State. With the state’s political landscape still in flux, the situation remains delicate. Governor Fubara’s ability to manage the complex dynamics of Wike’s loyalists and assert his leadership will be crucial in determining the future of the state’s governance.

As political battles continue to unfold, both within the PDP and in the broader public sphere, the people of Rivers State will be watching closely to see how their leaders navigate the challenges ahead.