By Polycarp Nwaeke
The political crisis in Rivers State, which has continued to generate national attention, began a few months after the 2023 general elections.
What initially appeared to be a smooth political transition has since evolved into a deep power struggle, threatening governance and stability in the state.
At the center of the crisis is the long-standing political relationship between the former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Wike, widely regarded as the political godfather of the state, is alleged to have played a decisive role in Fubara’s emergence as governor. According to political observers, this support was not without conditions.
It is alleged that prior to assuming office, Governor Fubara was required to agree to a set of stringent terms dictated by his predecessor.
Among these conditions was the alleged control or retention of a significant portion of the state’s revenue by the political godfather and his loyal structure.
Reports suggest that these arrangements were entered into under pressure rather than mutual agreement.
However, after settling into office, Governor Fubara reportedly discovered that the conditions attached to his emergence as governor were detrimental to the interests of the state. In response, he is said to have distanced himself from some of the agreed terms, choosing instead to assert his authority as the elected chief executive of Rivers State.
This decision reportedly angered Wike, who allegedly responded by deploying his political machinery against the sitting governor.
The rift soon spilled into the Rivers State House of Assembly, where a faction of lawmakers loyal to the former governor became involved in moves widely interpreted as attempts to impeach Governor Fubara.
The crisis has since escalated, resulting in multiple court cases, legal interpretations, and conflicting rulings that have further complicated governance in the state.
Legislative paralysis, political uncertainty, and heightened tensions have become recurring features of the Rivers political landscape.
Concerned about the implications of the standoff, elders and traditional rulers in Rivers State have recently stepped in, appealing to all parties to embrace dialogue and restraint in the interest of peace and development.
Their intervention underscores the growing fear that prolonged political instability could undermine democratic institutions and slow economic progress in the state.
As Rivers State navigates this challenging period, many citizens and analysts are calling for respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, and the autonomy of elected offices. The way forward, they argue, lies in sincere dialogue, institutional independence, and a collective commitment to governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people over political dominance.
