Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike declared on December 30, 2025, that Rivers State will "correct the leadership mistake" in the 2027 elections, in a thinly veiled jab at Governor Siminalayi Fubara during a thank-you tour in Khana Local Government Area. Addressing cheering crowds in Bori, Wike vowed grassroots mobilization to right perceived 2023 wrongs, insisting his political structure not Fubara's recent APC defection commands true loyalty.
Wike, flanked by loyalists, emphasized Rivers' political realignment under President Tinubu's "Renewed Hope," dismissing Fubara as a latecomer lacking organic support despite his gubernatorial perch. This follows APC Vice Chairman Victor Giadom's edict that Fubara needs Wike's blessing for victories, even in his own backyard.
The vow echoes the Rivers Assembly's swift return of Fubara's N100,000 Christmas bonuses, branded unlawful amid budget standoffs and Wike-aligned lawmakers' dominance. Wike mocked PDP's irrelevance while rejecting "number one APC supporter" labels, claiming 22 council chairs and assembly majority as his enduring empire.
Contradictory signals emerge: Wike's kinsmen endorsed Fubara's second term, yet his camp plots alternatives amid APC primaries looming. Ohanaeze leader countered Wike, affirming "only one governor," as Fubara eyes Tinubu's favor post-defection. Rivers remains Nigeria's fiercest arena, with Wike's machine versus Fubara's incumbency fueling 2027 fireworks.