RIVERS POLITICS: 21 former LGA chairmen reportedly shun Wike’s meeting amid rift with Fubara
By OUR REPORTER
If confirmed, the reported development could raise questions about the cohesion of Wike’s political allies in Rivers State as political actors begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A fresh political development in Rivers State has sparked questions about the strength of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike’s political influence following claims that 21 of 23 former local government area (LGA) chairmen expected at a meeting he organised reportedly failed to attend.
The claim, shared by a social media account identified as BLESSED X, also alleged that several supporters of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara stayed away from the gathering.
However, the figures and circumstances surrounding the reported absence of the former council chairmen have not been independently verified.
If confirmed, the reported development could raise questions about the cohesion of Wike’s political allies in Rivers State as political actors begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Questions Over Wike’s Political Structure
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, has remained an influential figure in the state’s politics. However, his prolonged political disagreement with his successor, Fubara, has created a major contest over political loyalty and control of the state’s political structures.
The latest claim has consequently drawn attention to whether Wike continues to enjoy the same level of support among political figures who previously aligned themselves with him.
The reported absence of 21 former council chairmen, if established, could prompt questions about the willingness of some former allies to participate in his political activities.
Nevertheless, failure to attend a single meeting does not, by itself, establish that those concerned have withdrawn their support from Wike. Their reasons for staying away, if they did, remain unclear.
Fubara’s Position In Rivers Politics
Governor Fubara has been at the centre of the political crisis involving Wike and rival political interests in Rivers State.
The dispute has generated sustained debate about political authority, party structures, loyalty and the relationship between the governor and his predecessor.
The latest social media claim has also raised questions about whether Fubara’s political standing is changing amid the continuing rivalry.
However, the allegation that some of his supporters boycotted Wike’s meeting requires further clarification, including the identities of those involved and the circumstances surrounding their reported absence.
Without independently verified information, it would be premature to conclude that the development represents a significant shift in political allegiance.
What Does This Mean For 2027?
With the 2027 general elections approaching, the political contest in Rivers State is likely to remain a subject of considerable public interest.
For Wike, the key question is whether his political relationships and influence among local political stakeholders remain intact.
For Fubara, attention will focus on whether he can consolidate his political support, maintain relationships with relevant stakeholders and build a political structure capable of competing effectively in the next electoral cycle.
The broader political calculation also includes the possible impact of developments at the federal level. Changes in alliances and the balance of power following the 2027 presidential election could influence political calculations in Rivers State, although the direction and extent of any such effect remain uncertain.
Ultimately, the strength of any political structure cannot be measured solely by attendance at meetings or public declarations of loyalty.
The more decisive indicators will include the ability of political leaders to sustain alliances, mobilise supporters and secure votes in credible elections.
Political Influence Under Scrutiny
The reported absence of 21 former local government chairmen, if verified, could provide an indication of changing relationships within Rivers State’s political establishment. It does not, however, establish who currently commands greater grassroots support.
The central questions remain whether Wike retains his influence among former allies, whether Fubara is consolidating his political position and how voters will respond when they have an opportunity to make their choices at the ballot box.
