The camp of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is ecstatic following the resignation of commissioners loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Five commissioners quit the state executive council on Wednesday, citing the ongoing political crisis in the state. This development comes after two commissioners had earlier resigned following a cabinet reshuffle by Governor Fubara.
The resignations are seen as a significant blow to Wike’s political influence in the state, triggering jubilation among Fubara’s supporters and some citizens. Plans are underway for a solidarity march to the Rivers State Government House in support of the governor.
According to Sydney Gbara, spokesman for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, the former commissioners were “moles in the system” and their departure has sparked celebration. Gbara claimed that Wike’s political structure in the state has collapsed, and the grassroots support has shifted to the SIMplified Movement, a political movement backing Governor Fubara.
Former Rivers State House of Assembly member, Sir Jackson Belema, also welcomed the commissioners’ resignation, describing it as “good riddance to bad rubbish.” Belema urged Wike to leave Governor Fubara alone, as the people of Rivers State are firmly behind their governor.
The political supremacy battle between Fubara and Wike continues, with the latest development seen as a significant victory for the incumbent governor.