Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike issued a stern warning to APC National Secretary Dapo Apara on January 5, 2026, telling him to "leave Rivers alone or face the consequences" after Apara criticized Wike's influence over state politics. The exchange escalates tensions within the APC and Wike's cross-party maneuvers against Governor Siminalayi Fubara ahead of 2027 elections.
Wike, during his ongoing Rivers "thank you" tours, dismissed Apara's remarks as meddlesome, asserting his unchallenged control: "Nobody will give me instructions as far as Rivers is concerned". He accused the national secretary of overreach, vowing repercussions for interfering in local dynamics where APC and PDP leaders pledge loyalty to him.
Apara had cautioned Wike against dictating Rivers APC affairs, highlighting party hierarchy, but Wike countered by touting his grassroots structures as indispensable for any victory. Rivers APC figures like Ahoada West chair Rejoice Otobo affirmed they take instructions solely from Wike, defying national directives.
This public spat underscores Wike's strategy to block Fubara's second term while backing President Tinubu's re-election, framing himself as Rivers' political kingmaker. His coalition across PDP and APC aims to reclaim state power, dismissing Fubara's resources as futile against organized local support.