The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cautioned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Ajibola Basiru, against interfering in the political affairs of Rivers State, declaring that such involvement would not be taken lightly.
Wike issued the warning while addressing supporters during a thank-you visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
His remarks were a direct response to comments made by Basiru, who on Sunday admonished the party’s National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Victor Giadom, to stop showing what he described as disrespect toward Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, in an attempt to curry favor with Wike.
Basiru’s intervention followed statements credited to Giadom on December 30, 2025, during Wike’s visit to Gokana Local Government Area. At the event, Giadom reportedly referred to Fubara as a “so-called governor” and further claimed that anyone seeking political success in Rivers State must first pass through Wike.
Reacting strongly, the former Rivers governor dismissed Basiru’s comments and instructed Giadom to warn the APC national scribe to stay away from Rivers politics if he wished to avoid consequences. “Tell your national secretary to leave Rivers alone. Go and ask those who have tried it before, and don’t take our support for Mr President for granted. You have to be careful of the statement you made,” Wike said.
The minister went further to state that he intended to bring Basiru’s remarks to the attention of President Bola Tinubu and other senior government officials.
He warned that Rivers State was not a place for political experimentation, adding that anyone who extended a hand into the state’s affairs should be prepared for the outcome. “When Mr. President comes back, when I see the Minister of Blue Economy, I will tell them to tell him. Carry your hand to Rivers State, if your hand burns, don’t say na me burn am,” he declared.
Wike also criticized individuals he accused of meddling in Rivers politics because of claims surrounding an alleged ₦600 billion in the state’s treasury, urging them to stay away. He recalled that during the political struggle to mobilize support for President Tinubu in the 2023 elections, Rivers people stood largely alone, without external backing.
He warned that those now attempting to insert themselves into the state’s political landscape should desist or be ready to face the consequences of their actions. Describing Rivers State as “a no-go area,” Wike emphasized that a deliberate decision had been taken by his political camp to support the president, insisting that the choice was voluntary and not imposed by anyone.
According to him, interest in Rivers politics only surged after political benefits became apparent, noting that when the situation was challenging, few voices were heard. He urged critics to refrain from what he called unnecessary comments and to respect the boundaries of the state’s political space.
Wike concluded by expressing appreciation to the people of Oyigbo, saying they had always supported him whenever he sought their backing.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyigbo Local Government Council, Okechukwu Agara, thanked the minister on behalf of the community, pledging continued loyalty and support for his leadership and political direction.
What you should know
The exchange reflects deepening political tensions within the APC over influence in Rivers State, particularly following shifts in alliances since the 2023 elections.
Wike’s comments signal his continued dominance in Rivers politics despite his current role at the federal level and highlight ongoing power struggles between party leaders, state actors, and national officials within the ruling party.
