Wike Criticises Fubara Over Disclosure of Rivers’ Funds, Hints at Political Consequences
Story: written by Daniel December 29,2025
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has faulted Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for publicly revealing the volume of funds available to the state, warning that the disclosure could trigger serious political repercussions.
Speaking on Saturday at a Christmas carol organised by his supporters in Rivers State, Wike said Fubara’s claim that he met about ₦600 billion in state coffers after the lifting of emergency rule had drawn undue political attention to the state. According to him, the statement invited politicians from outside Rivers who are now exerting pressure and seeking access to the state’s resources.
Wike argued that experienced politicians understand the implications of such disclosures, noting that Rivers State has long been attractive to political interests nationwide. He said announcing the availability of huge funds was a strategic error that opened the door to external interference.
He further claimed that visiting politicians now feel obliged to publicly distance themselves from him or make statements suggesting presidential approval in order to gain favour within the state, though he offered no evidence to support the allegation.
Wike’s remarks came shortly after a federal government delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu visited Rivers State to address issues surrounding the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland. During the visit, Ribadu reportedly commended Fubara’s handling of tensions in the state, saying it pleased President Bola Tinubu.
The FCT minister also cautioned politicians against violating political agreements, stressing that broken deals often come with consequences. While he did not directly mention Fubara, his comments were widely interpreted as a response to the governor’s recent alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move Wike is said to view as a breach of their earlier understanding.
It was earlier reported that part of the agreement leading to Fubara’s reinstatement by President Tinubu included a condition that he would not contest the 2027 governorship election.
