President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his support for Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, insisting that the governor should be allowed to carry out his constitutional duties without undue interference.
Speaking on Channels Television’s current affairs programme, Hard Copy, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Communication, Daniel Bwala, said the leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State is clear.
“I agree with the point highlighted by the National Chairman that in Rivers State, Governor Fubara is the leader of the APC. Wike is not a member of the APC, so he cannot speak for the party,” Bwala stated.
He noted that while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, may be regarded as a leader within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State due to his status as a former governor, the APC leader in the state remains Governor Fubara.
Bwala stressed that President Tinubu strongly believes in the rule of law, due process, and democratic principles, adding that the party respects its internal procedures.
“What the National Chairman said is what the party stands by because he respects party procedures. The President believes in the rule of law and due process, and the party will always respect that,” he said.
Addressing concerns about Wike’s perceived influence within the Federal Government, Bwala explained that while the President believes in rewarding service, such privileges do not supersede national interest.
“The President believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of the interest of Nigeria. He gives latitude, but once you cross the line, you will know,” he added.
On the political tension in Rivers State, Bwala said issues surrounding the rift between Wike and Governor Fubara are being handled strictly within the framework of the law.
“When you ask who is the leader of the party, the answer is the governor. The impeachment procedure must be consistent with constitutional requirements. There are court orders stopping the impeachment, and the party is clear that nobody should stop Governor Fubara from governing,” he said.
He further emphasized that Wike is not a member of the ruling APC and therefore cannot speak for the party.
Bwala also noted that President Tinubu’s stance transcends party lines, adding that the President respects the right of every governor, regardless of political affiliation, to govern without obstruction.
According to him, the President’s position reflects his commitment to democratic stability, party discipline, and constitutional governance across the country.