Fubara Is APC Leader in Rivers, Not Wike – Tinubu Backs Party Structure, Says Bwala

The political tension in Rivers State took a new turn on Thursday following comments by Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who stated unequivocally that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is the recognised leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State. According to Bwala, this position reflects not only the stance of the APC National Chairman but also the firm belief of President Tinubu in party supremacy and the rule of law.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Hard Copy, Bwala addressed the growing controversy surrounding the power struggle in Rivers politics, particularly the perceived influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. While acknowledging Wike’s prominent role within the federal cabinet and his political weight, Bwala stressed that party affiliation remains decisive.

“I agree with the position of the APC National Chairman that Governor Sim Fubara is the leader of the APC in Rivers State,” Bwala said. “Wike may be a leader in the PDP, but he is not a member of the APC, and therefore cannot speak for or lead the APC.”

Bwala’s remarks appear to counter the widespread perception that Wike, despite being a PDP stalwart, holds enormous sway over Rivers State politics and enjoys unusual leverage within the Tinubu administration. The presidential aide made it clear that President Tinubu distinguishes between personal political relationships and formal party structures.

According to Bwala, President Tinubu is deeply committed to the rule of law and consistently aligns himself with the official positions of party institutions. “The President believes in the rule of law and sticks to the position of the party’s National Chairman,” he said, adding that the APC maintains a clear policy of recognising sitting governors as party leaders in their respective states.

Addressing claims that Wike has enjoyed extraordinary privileges as a cabinet member, Bwala pushed back against the narrative that the FCT Minister has been unfairly favoured. He argued that Wike’s access to resources and influence was a function of his office, not special treatment, and insisted that similar opportunities extended to others would yield comparable results.

When asked by the interviewer whether Wike had “delivered more than most” ministers, Bwala responded pointedly. “If others are given the same resources and unfettered access, they will do more,” he said. “Wike has been adequately compensated. The President believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of Nigeria’s interest.”

Bwala further suggested that President Tinubu operates with clear boundaries. While he allows political allies latitude and privilege, crossing certain lines has consequences. “When you cross that line, nobody will tell you—you will know,” he remarked, hinting at the President’s intolerance for actions that undermine governance or party order.

On the lingering impeachment threats against Governor Fubara, Bwala disclosed that court processes are already in motion to halt any such attempt. He emphasized that the APC’s position is unambiguous: no one should obstruct Fubara from carrying out his constitutional responsibilities as governor.

“The party is clear. Nobody should stop Fubara from governing Rivers State,” Bwala said. “The APC stands with leaders in their respective states.”

The comments have sparked intense debate, with supporters interpreting Bwala’s statement as a sign that Wike’s influence may be waning, while critics argue that the political reality in Rivers remains more complex than official pronouncements suggest. Nevertheless, Bwala’s remarks signal a deliberate effort by the presidency to assert party hierarchy, rein in internal contradictions, and reinforce Governor Fubara’s authority ahead of future political battles in Rivers State.