Written by Ella Michaels
Prominent socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has criticized Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, claiming he shot himself in the foot by handing Rivers State to President Bola Tinubu through Governor Sim Fubara. According to Yesufu, Rivers State was Wike's bargaining chip, and by losing control, he has weakened his influence and jeopardized his role as a key political actor.
Yesufu believes Tinubu now has direct access to Rivers State through Fubara, who is likely to be loyal to the presidency. This development has sparked debate about the power dynamics in Rivers State, with Yesufu asserting that Wike's decision was a serious miscalculation.
The conflict between Governor Fubara and Wike has dominated Rivers State politics, with disagreements spanning administrative control, loyalty within the party, and broader questions of influence. President Tinubu's intervention, which led to Fubara's reinstatement, has reshaped the balance of power in the state, potentially reducing Wike's hold.
Yesufu's criticism highlights the delicate balance between institutional authority and personal loyalty in Nigerian politics. Wike's struggle with Fubara and Tinubu's growing reach in Rivers State will remain central to the country's political drama. The shift in power dynamics raises questions about Wike's future relevance and Fubara's loyalty to Tinubu.
Yesufu emphasizes the importance of focusing on elections and the individuals who control institutions, as they shape outcomes. She warns that no election can be rigged without willing participants, highlighting the critical role of loyalty networks in Nigerian politics.
