Breaking: Fubara–Wike Power Rift Deepens as Loyalists and Elders Clash Over Key Appointments in Rivers State

A late-night meeting in Port Harcourt reportedly turned heated as Wike’s loyalists rejected Governor Fubara’s proposed nominees, reigniting fears of renewed political tension in Rivers State.

A fresh political storm brews in Rivers State as reports emerge that a high-stakes closed-door meeting took place late into the night in Port Harcourt, pitting loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike against elder statesmen over critical state appointments. According to reliable sources who asked to remain anonymous, the gathering involved lawmakers and influential elders aligned with Wike, clashing with forces backing current Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s proposed nominees for Chief of Staff, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and new commissioner slots.

Tension reportedly escalated when some elders and House of Assembly members loyal to Wike rejected several names on Fubara’s list, including Oko Jumbo, Ichemati, Ambassador Chijioke, Danagogo, and others. Their position, as conveyed by insiders, is rooted in belief that Wike remains the undisputed political figure in Rivers State and that only trusted loyalists should occupy sensitive roles. One elder was quoted as warning that allowing Fubara’s side to dominate those offices could “destabilize the existing peace and political balance” across the state and urged that some alliances be reconsidered to maintain unity.

However, not all in that room backed the Wike loyalist line. A few elder statesmen reportedly spoke in defense of Governor Fubara’s prerogative as sitting governor to pick his team without interference. They urged both camps to prioritize the unity and development of Rivers State over personal loyalty. Some suggested that reconciliation and compromise would serve the state better than rigid factionalism.

Interestingly, insiders also say that Wike himself has publicly distanced his personal opinion from the dispute. Though he remains influential in state politics, reports suggest he has told confidants that he harbors no objection to whoever Fubara appoints. Nevertheless, his followers appear unwilling to yield, insisting on greater say in the selection process.

The backdrop to this conflict is not new. Rivers politics has long been marked by power tussles between establishment factions and emerging governorship interests, especially with the looming 2027 election. Analysts believe this latest face-off may be more than just about appointments—it could be a test of loyalty, power balance, and who really controls the soul of Rivers politics going forward.

One close watcher noted to BigChiefVibes that while governors typically propose team members, in Rivers State the influence of Wike’s loyalists remains so strong that appointment lists are rarely accepted without negotiation. Another observer warned that if the clash is not skillfully managed, it risks reigniting bitterness from the political turbulence Rivers went through earlier this year.

A related development makes this standoff even more significant: only recently, Governor Fubara held another meeting with Wike, loyalists, and elders at the residence of elder statesman Ferdinand Alabraba. The gathering was widely viewed as part of the effort to consolidate political peace in Rivers, following months of tension and intrigue. 

While no final resolution has been confirmed at the time of writing, political watchers say the balance has shifted slightly in favor of Fubara. Reports indicate he may be considering a mixed slate—some of his trusted appointees, along with select loyalists acceptable to Wike’s camp—to maintain equilibrium. Others predict this standoff could lead to further negotiations behind closed doors before any official announcements are made.

For many in Rivers State, this episode reinforces a familiar truth: politics here is never about simple governance. It is woven into fierce loyalty, personal influence, and strategic alliances. And as the state edges toward future elections, every appointment becomes a battlefield.

BigChiefVibes will continue to monitor developments, including which names survive the clash, how power blocs realign, and whether Fubara can balance the demands of performance, loyalty, and political harmony.

 What do you think should guide these appointments? Should party loyalty give way to competence and balance? Share your opinions on BigChiefVibes and join the debate shaping the future of Rivers State.

Ekpu Code: *“In the heart of power, balance must be sought. Where loyalty ends, division begins.”*