Jake Epelle, a prominent figure in Rivers State politics, has firmly dismissed claims that Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, holds sway as a political godfather in the state. Speaking out on December 9, 2025, Epelle argued that Wike lacks the overarching control often attributed to him amid ongoing tensions with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He called on Wike to prioritize his federal responsibilities rather than meddling in state affairs.
Epelle's remarks highlight the persistent power struggles in Rivers, an oil-rich Niger Delta state known for its history of godfather-protégé rivalries. Past governors like Rotimi Amaechi faced similar dynamics with predecessors, and Wike's role in installing Fubara during the 2023 elections has fueled perceptions of undue influence. Yet Epelle insisted that Rivers politics belongs to its people, not any single individual seeking to "hold them by the jugular."
The statement comes at a time of heightened political maneuvering, including recent defections of assembly members loyal to Wike from PDP to APC, signaling deepening divisions. Epelle emphasized that true leadership demands accountability to constituents over personal agendas, urging all actors to foster development instead of conflict. Local observers view this as a pushback against godfatherism, a recurring theme that has stalled progress in the state.