Fubara: As a sitting governor with immunity, he should have subdued Wike by now-Zailani

According to a report by The Sun on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Hon Ibrahim Zailani, a lawyer is Bauchi State’s former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, he is also a former member of the House of Representatives and a former Executive Director at the Cabotage and Maritime Services of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, he spoke on the political situation surrounding Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the ongoing struggle for survival in the state political space.

Hon Ibrahim Zailani said the crisis in Rivers has continued to attract attention across the country, as it reflects deeper tensions within the ruling political structures and highlights the growing pressure on elected leaders who find themselves caught between party loyalty and personal political safety.

He explained that the present situation in Rivers State is no longer just a local matter, but one that now carries national importance because of the personalities involved and the influence they hold within the political system.

Hon Ibrahim Zailani noted that Governor Fubara’s political future appears uncertain, as the forces aligned against him remain powerful, while the internal party conflicts have made it difficult for him to fully exercise his authority without resistance.

He stated that the decision by Fubara to leave his former party and align with the All Progressives Congress was not a casual move, but one driven by the need for security, stability, and protection within the current political climate.

Hon Ibrahim Zailani said that this shift clearly shows that the governor is under intense pressure, and that his survival now depends largely on the support he receives from those who control power at the federal level.

He added that the role of the President has become critical in this matter, as only a strong intervention from the highest office can help stabilize the situation and prevent further political damage in Rivers State.

Hon Ibrahim Zailani also pointed out that Governor Fubara has not done enough to assert his authority, despite having the constitutional powers and immunity that come with the office of a sitting governor, which should allow him to protect his position.

He explained that the continued influence of Nyesom Wike in Rivers politics has weakened the governor’s control, and that Fubara’s inability to decisively counter these actions has become a major disadvantage in his struggle for political survival.

Hon Ibrahim Zailani said his comments were meant to show that support from national leadership is necessary, that the governor’s party switch was a search for protection, and that stronger action is required to stop external interference.

He said: "With the current situation, the powers that be should support Fubara because for him to dump his party and move to APC, he was clearly seeking protection. So, I believe the President should intervene and save Fubara. But Fubara needs to do much more, he is letting Wike play very dirty roles in Rivers. As a sitting governor with immunity and all gubernatorial powers, he should have subdued Wike by now. But that is his big minus."