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Ex-Ekiti Governor Challenges Rivers State APC Leadership Claims
Former Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose, has publicly disputed assertions made by Rivers State governor, Sim Fubara, regarding his position as the undisputed leader and “001” of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.
Fayose Draws Parallels with Lagos Political Dynamics
During an exclusive interview on Arise TV on Tuesday, January 13, Fayose compared the political leadership claims in Rivers State to those in Lagos State. He argued that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu cannot be considered the ultimate political authority in Lagos, emphasizing that such influence belongs to President Bola Tinubu, who previously served as Lagos governor.
To illustrate his point, Fayose referenced the recent impeachment and subsequent reinstatement of the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker. He described this event as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s overriding control over Lagos politics.
“The president I know despises ingratitude. He holds Lagos firmly in his grasp. For example, when the Speaker was impeached and replaced, the president, without uttering a word publicly, orchestrated the restoration of the original Speaker because it was a direct challenge to his authority as the leader.
Would you say Sanwo-Olu is the leader in Lagos? Let him openly claim that title. Some statements are made just for show-don’t let them fool you,” Fayose stated.
Emergency Rule in Rivers State Seen as a Political Lifeline
Fayose also weighed in on the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a crucial political reprieve for Governor Fubara.
“The emergency rule was a game-changer for Governor Fubara. Without it, he might have been politically sidelined by now, as impeachment would have removed him from office and barred him from contesting further.
If you analyze President Tinubu’s approach, he decisively outmaneuvered Governor Fubara. It’s time for Fubara to learn from this experience, just as I did after my first term as governor,” Fayose remarked.
Context: Ongoing Political Rivalry in Rivers State
These remarks come amid an intense and ongoing political struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over dominance of Rivers State’s political landscape. The tussle has significantly shaped the state’s governance and party dynamics in recent years.
Understanding the Broader Implications
This dispute highlights the complex nature of political leadership within Nigerian states, where formal officeholders may not always hold the ultimate sway. Instead, influential figures such as former governors or national leaders often exert considerable behind-the-scenes control, shaping political outcomes and power structures.
Recent political developments across Nigeria underscore this trend. For instance, in Lagos, President Tinubu’s influence remains pivotal despite his transition to the presidency, demonstrating how political capital built over years can transcend official titles.
