Rivers: “Wike Is Pursuing His Own Agenda, Not Tinubu’s Agenda” - Otubanjo

According to a report by Daily Sun on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Director of Research at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, Femi Otubanjo, has alleged that the political crisis in Rivers State reflects personal political interests rather than the broader agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, Otubanjo said the ongoing tensions surrounding Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara could create political problems for the ruling party in the South-South region.

“What has emerged today in Rivers is that Wike is pursuing his own agenda, not Tinubu’s agenda,” Otubanjo said.

The political analyst warned that sidelining Fubara could destabilise the political balance in Rivers State and weaken the electoral chances of the All Progressives Congress in the region. He argued that removing the governor from the political equation could alienate voters and undermine support for the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Otubanjo also raised concerns about internal democracy within the APC, alleging that influence over candidate selection in Rivers politics had shifted away from formal party structures. He maintained that political control of party machinery did not automatically translate into public support, adding that mishandling the Rivers crisis could have wider consequences across the South-South geopolitical zone.