Fayose Issues Grave Caution to Governor Sim Fubara Amid Intensifying Impeachment Threat in Rivers State

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has expressed deep concern over the escalating impeachment threat facing Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State. Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, January 9, Fayose emphasized that only through dedicated fasting, earnest prayers, and strategic political mediation can Fubara hope to withstand the mounting pressures from factions within the Rivers State House of Assembly allied with former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Rising Tensions Between Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike

Fayose criticized Governor Fubara for allegedly bypassing constitutional mandates by appointing his cabinet members and allocating state funds without securing the necessary approval from the State Assembly. This unilateral approach, according to Fayose, has exacerbated political tensions and fueled the momentum toward impeachment.

“I am not claiming to be a seer, but the situation in Rivers State demands serious fasting and prayers to safeguard Fubara; presidential intervention might even become essential. How can he appoint officials and distribute state resources without the Assembly’s constitutional endorsement? People talk about removing Wike-if that’s possible. But can his influence be erased? His supporters remain prominently visible at public events,” Fayose remarked.

Fayose’s Warning on Political Allegiance and Betrayal

Reflecting on past events, Fayose revealed that he had advised Governor Fubara during his inauguration not to betray Nyesom Wike, who was instrumental in his political rise. Despite these cautions, the relationship has soured, leading to the current political deadlock.

“At Fubara’s inauguration, I intended to counsel him against turning his back on Wike. Wike assured me that Fubara would remain loyal. I warned Fubara that if he chose to oppose Wike, he should prepare for a fierce struggle,” Fayose recounted.

Presidential Influence and the Importance of Political Gratitude

Fayose highlighted the pivotal role of President Bola Tinubu in the ongoing political saga, stressing the President’s intolerance for disloyalty. He suggested that without Tinubu’s support, many political figures, including Wike, might have faded into obscurity. Fayose pointed out that Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister was a critical factor that preserved his political relevance.

“By God’s grace, those backed by President Tinubu have remained resilient. Had the President not appointed Wike as FCT Minister, Wike’s political career might have effectively ended,” Fayose stated.

Implications of the Political Standoff on Rivers State’s Development

The ongoing confrontation between Governor Fubara and Wike’s loyalists underscores a profound challenge of political loyalty and governance in Rivers State. With impeachment proceedings gaining momentum, the state’s political stability hangs in the balance. Analysts warn that this discord could delay critical development projects and diminish public confidence in the government.

Recent data from Nigerian states experiencing similar impeachment crises indicate that such conflicts often lead to prolonged administrative paralysis, negatively impacting service delivery and economic growth. The Rivers State situation exemplifies how intra-party rivalries can disrupt governance and stall progress.