Tension rises as Wike storms Port-Harcourt with huge entourage amid face-off with Gov Fubara

The crisis in Rivers state took a different turn as the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike arrived in Port-Harcour for some functions.

Wike attends the burial of Chief Ejor's mother in Eleme, while Fubara graces the convocation of the Rivers State University (RSU).

Tensions rise as the two political figures, once seen together at public events, now avoid each other.

As reported by The Nation, on the minister’s huge entourage were the minister of state for petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Senator Barry Mpigi, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Major Jack and some members of the Assembly loyal to him.

At the 35th convocation ceremony of the University that took place at the Convocation Arena of the institution in Nkpolu-Orworukwo, Port Harcourt on Saturday, Fubara, promised to strengthen the capacity of the University (RSU) and make it one of the best in the country, The Nigerian Tribune reported.

He said: “The essence of our commitment to education development is reflected in our 2024 budget where it received the third highest allocation.”

What was once a familiar sight—Wike and Fubara attending public functions together—has now turned into a deliberate avoidance, creating speculation about the state of their political alliance.

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Boma Goodhead, a member of the House of Representatives from Rivers state, has claimed that Nyesom Wike is responsible for orchestrating the killing of Bako Angbashim, a Divisional Police Officer in the Ahoada East local government area of the state.

In a widely circulated video on social media, Goodhead, who represents the Asari-Toru Federal Constituency in the state, accused the former governor of Rivers state of involvement in Angbashim's death.

The 53-year-old member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on security agencies to investigate Wike and bring him in for questioning regarding the incident.

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Fubara assured Nigerians that his government would continue to protect the interest of the people of the state.

The government thanked the people of Rivers 'for their support' so far.

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara's live musical band caught the attention of many internet users on Friday, December 15.

The band was present at the commencement ceremony for the construction of 20,000 housing units in the Ikwere area of Rivers state.

Wike lands in Rivers State. FCT Minister was accompanied by Senator Barry Mpigi, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Minister of State, Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri, Rivers Assembly Members and some LGA Chairmen. pic.twitter.com/37uVVLjqX5

— Journalist KC (@kc_journalist) December 16, 2023