In a twist that deepens the political drama engulfing Rivers State, a quiet gathering in the UK could have far-reaching implications back home. Suspended lawmakers, a powerful minister, and a crisis with no clear end what really happened behind closed doors in London?
By Yaro, Political Correspondent
LONDON, UK — In a move that has raised eyebrows across Nigeria’s political landscape, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, reportedly hosted a meeting in the United Kingdom with lawmakers suspended from the Rivers State House of Assembly, fueling speculation of a deepening power struggle and looming political realignment in the oil-rich state.
The lawmakers, suspended following their fallout with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, were allegedly flown out for a closed-door meeting with Wike, a key figure in the unfolding political battle that has divided the state’s leadership. Sources close to the development claim the meeting was aimed at strategizing a political comeback and forestalling what insiders describe as an “imminent declaration of emergency rule” in the state.
While details of the UK gathering remain closely guarded, political analysts suggest the meeting is the clearest sign yet that Wike is not backing down from the fierce contest for control in his home state. The former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister has been at the center of a tense rift with his successor, Governor Fubara—a rift that has splintered the state assembly and heightened tensions among party loyalists.
“Wike is clearly rallying his loyalists,” said Dr. Charles Opara, a Port Harcourt-based political analyst. “This isn’t just a reconciliation meeting it’s a war council. The UK meeting suggests that Wike is preparing for a prolonged battle and perhaps even a federal intervention in Rivers.”
The political instability has prompted fears that President Bola Tinubu’s administration may consider imposing emergency rule in Rivers State if the crisis escalates beyond control. While the presidency has not made any official statements, the overseas meetings and rising security concerns in Port Harcourt have only intensified speculation.
Governor Fubara, on his part, has remained largely silent on the matter, choosing instead to focus on governance amid the distractions. But critics warn that silence may not be enough to stem the tide if the rift continues to spiral.
As Rivers State teeters on the edge of a constitutional crisis, the question now looms: Is Wike seeking to outmaneuver Fubara or is the nation watching the prelude to an unprecedented federal intervention?
One thing is clear: the drama is far from over.