Governor Fubara’s offer to resign exposed by Niger Delta Leader amidst escalating crisis with Wike

Amidst the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, a revelation has emerged from Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, a prominent Niger Delta leader and National Coordinator of the South-South Leadership Forum. Sara-Igbe disclosed that Governor Siminalye Fubara had contemplated resigning from his position in the early days of the rift with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister. The revelation sheds light on the internal struggles within the ruling party and the power dynamics that have fueled a series of resignations and defections in the oil-rich state.

Wike, who handpicked Fubara as his successor, has witnessed a souring of relations with the current governor, resulting in a bitter political feud. Accusations have flown from both sides, with Wike alleging that Fubara dismantled the political structure that facilitated his rise to power. In response, Fubara hinted at his predecessor’s overbearing influence, claiming that he was not given the autonomy to govern effectively.

The ongoing strife has plunged Rivers State into a political maelstrom, marked by a wave of resignations from the governor’s cabinet and party members crossing the aisle in the state House of Assembly. Sara-Igbe’s revelations provide a glimpse into the internal turmoil, shedding light on Fubara’s initial inclination to step down from office.

In an interview on Channels Television, Sara-Igbe, a former spokesperson for the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), delved into the details of Fubara’s contemplation to resign. According to him, Fubara considered stepping down due to external forces limiting his autonomy, lack of control over state funds, and challenges in running his government. The Niger Delta leader highlighted the precarious situation faced by Fubara, predicting a continued exodus of commissioners from his cabinet as Wike’s loyalists dominated key positions.

Sara-Igbe alleged that Wike still wields considerable influence in the Rivers Government House, asserting control over how the governor manages state affairs despite no longer holding the gubernatorial office. He questioned the rationale behind Wike’s assertion that the feud stemmed from Fubara’s attempt to claim his structure, emphasizing the economic disparities in the state’s revenue and financial management.

Explaining the underlying issues, Sara-Igbe pointed to a decline in internally generated revenue (IGR) and alleged mismanagement of funds during Wike’s tenure. Fubara’s attempt to address these issues reportedly led to a hostile response from the former governor, prompting the governor to contemplate resignation. The intervention of PDP elders prevented what could have been a messy departure, emphasizing the intricate web of political alliances and power plays within the party.

The Niger Delta leader also underscored the challenges faced by Nigerian governors in maintaining autonomy, stating that the vast powers vested in the position make it difficult to render a governor subservient. He brought attention to Wike’s awareness of the defection of 27 PDP assembly lawmakers to the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that the former governor was cognizant of the potential consequences of such a move.

As Rivers State remains embroiled in political turmoil, the revelation of Fubara’s contemplation to resign adds a new dimension to the complex dynamics shaping the state’s political landscape. With key players entrenched in their positions, the unfolding drama in Rivers State continues to captivate political observers and citizens alike.