Rivers crisis: Tinubu standing with Fubara as APC leader not Wike – Bwala

Daniel Bwala, special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on policy communication, has affirmed that the president aligns with the position of the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, regarding the party’s leadership structure in Rivers state.

Bwala spoke against the backdrop of ongoing impeachment proceedings by the Rivers state house of assembly against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as political tensions continue between the governor and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

On January 3, Yilwatda declared that Fubara is the leader of the APC in Rivers, explaining that the party recognises sitting governors as state leaders. He also urged governors to promote inclusion and avoid marginalising other party members.

Speaking on Hard Copy, a Channels Television programme, Bwala said the governor should be allowed to discharge his responsibilities without interference, stressing that Wike does not speak for the APC in the state.

“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,” he said.

“He may be regarded as a leader within the PDP in Rivers state, having been a former governor, but the APC leader in the state is Governor Fubara.”

Bwala said the president’s stance reflects adherence to party guidelines and democratic norms.

“What the national chairman said is the position the president sticks to, 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 role within the federal government, Bwala said appointments and benefits do not override national interest.

“We’ve heard people complain that as a cabinet member, Wike enjoys certain benefits,” he said.

“Wike has been adequately compensated. The president believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of the interest of Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu gives latitude, but once you cross the line, you will know.”

He also said the political standoff between Wike and Fubara is under control.

“When you ask who is the leader of the party, the answer is the governor. The impeachment procedure must be consistent with the practice of law and constitutional requirements,” he added.

“The governor will deal with it. There are court orders stopping the impeachment, and the party is clear: nobody should stop Fubara from governing Rivers state.

“The president even respects the rights of states governed by the PDP. Even where the APC may want to challenge them, he believes that a governor, regardless of party, should be allowed to govern.”

Bwala said the president’s position underscores his commitment to democratic stability, constitutional order and party discipline nationwide.

(CABLE)