Wike Warns Fubara: Loyalty, Not Tinubu’s Backing, Will Determine 2027 Political Tickets

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has delivered a pointed political message to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, warning that backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not automatically guarantee any election ticket.

Speaking on Sunday in Emohua Local Government Area, Wike stressed that genuine political loyalty is proven during difficult times, not after power has already been secured. He cautioned against last-minute declarations of support, describing them as opportunistic and of little political value.

Reflecting on past elections, Wike recalled that the Rivers State House of Assembly had openly supported Tinubu well before the outcome of the 2023 polls was certain. He noted that many individuals now declaring support were absent during critical moments, emphasizing that loyalty demonstrated under pressure carries far more weight.

Wike also highlighted his administration’s achievements, arguing that governance is a continuous process and successors often fail to acknowledge the groundwork laid by previous governments.

The warning comes just weeks after Governor Fubara formally aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu’s party, a move seen by political observers as an attempt to strengthen his position in Rivers politics. Analysts say Wike’s comments underline a clear rift between his camp and that of the governor ahead of the 2027 elections.

Despite serving in Abuja, Wike remains a key political figure in Rivers State. His latest remarks suggest that party tickets will be awarded based on proven loyalty rather than convenient or late-stage support.

Videos of the Emohua event have gone viral on social media, with many interpreting Wike’s words as a direct message to Fubara. Neither Wike’s office nor the Rivers State Government has released an official clarification.

The ongoing tension signals that the political rivalry between Wike and Fubara’s camps remains active, despite previous reports of reconciliation attempts at the national level.