Wike holds Rivers political structure, Fubara is weak – Lere Olayinka

Lere Olayinka, media aide to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has claimed that Wike maintains full control over the political machinery in Rivers State, describing Governor Siminalayi Fubara as politically weak.

Speaking on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels TV’s Morning Brief, Olayinka affirmed that Wike dominates both the local government and state assembly structures, leaving Fubara with minimal influence.

“If I am a minister and you are a governor, and I can control your House of Assembly, then something is wrong with you. It means you are weak,” Olayinka said.

He also dismissed speculation that Wike is orchestrating impeachment moves against Fubara, insisting that the governor should manage his political challenges independently.

Earlier this month, the Rivers State House of Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, citing alleged gross misconduct. A high court in Port Harcourt subsequently issued an interim order restraining the chief judge from acting on the impeachment notice, with the assembly now appealing the decision.

The majority of Rivers lawmakers are considered loyal to Wike, who has openly campaigned against Fubara’s re-election bid, citing breaches of a previously signed peace agreement before President Bola Tinubu lifted emergency rule in the state.