Tensions have surged in Rivers State following a heated standoff between the factions of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
In the latest flare-up, Bright Amaewhule, a fervent supporter of Wike, delivered a strong warning to Governor Fubara during the inauguration of the Nyesom Wike International Market in Omagwa.
Amaewhule accused Fubara and his allies of continuously disrespecting Wike, even during events celebrating Fubara’s Supreme Court victory.
This recent clash appears to have shattered the peace agreement brokered by President Bola Tinubu in October 2023, aimed at resolving the differences between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.
Expressing his disappointment during a media interaction in Abuja on April 2, Wike dismissed any possibility of reconciliation with Fubara in the near future.
In response, Fubara broke his silence on April 3, issuing an indirect threat against his critics and promising surprising consequences for those pressuring him to strictly adhere to presidential directives.
This political divide threatens to deepen the schism within the state’s governance, highlighting the complex power struggle between the current Governor and his former mentor, now turned political rival.
Amaewhule, a staunch supporter of Wike, voiced his concerns on Friday, stating, “You have been insulting your boss, the immediate governor of Rivers State. You have given him names and allowed riff-raffs to insult him on different occasions in your so-called thanksgiving for your Supreme Court victory.”
He emphasized that the Supreme Court victory was not solely Fubara’s but belonged to all Rivers people, including those who tirelessly worked to secure his governorship position.
“If you don’t stop, if you don’t stop, we will come after you. We are not afraid. That Government House does not only belong to you, it belongs to Rivers people,” warned Amaewhule, highlighting potential repercussions if the insults persist.
The spokesperson also reminded Fubara of Wike’s crucial role in his ascent to power, stating, “All of us fought for you to be there, and Wike fought for you to be there. So if you want to continue to insult Wike, be prepared, you will run.”
Further critiquing Fubara’s background, Amaewhule claimed he lacked the political experience and sacrifices made by others, asserting, “You’re just a civil servant, you’re not a politician. You have not paid any price that we have paid in the past.”
He concluded with a warning, stating, “From tomorrow, we will be observing your supporters, we will be observing your followers. Any further attempts to insult the president of Nigeria, to insult our grand patron, Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, then be ready for war, and you will pay the price.”