The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, urging him to stay away from political affairs in Rivers State.
Wike’s warning followed comments credited to Basiru, in which he cautioned the APC National Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, against what he described as disrespect towards Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, allegedly in a bid to curry favour with the former Rivers governor.
Basiru’s remarks were reportedly made after Wike’s recent “thank you” visit to Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Reacting to the development while addressing residents of Oyigbo Local Government Area, Wike advised Basiru and other politicians to desist from actions and statements capable of igniting political tension in the state.
The FCT minister stressed that both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were now working towards a common goal of ensuring the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Wike also expressed displeasure over what he described as attempts by some politicians to position themselves to benefit from the N600 billion Rivers fund, warning against the politicisation of resources meant for the development of the state.
“Let me warn those who came to Rivers State, because you have heard that we have N600 billion. You come here, you collect, and you open your mouth to talk anyhow,” Wike said.
“I say it here, take this message to your National Secretary, leave Rivers State alone. Go and ask those who have done it before. Don’t take our support for Mr. President for granted. You have to be careful with the statements you make,” he added.
Wike further warned that Rivers State should not be taken for granted by politicians from outside the state, insisting that unnecessary comments and political interference would not be tolerated.
“This state is a no-go area. Take the one you have taken, stop making unnecessary comments,” the minister declared.
