The Presidency has put an end to the debate over the leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, affirming that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is the recognised leader of the party in the state.
The clarification was made by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, during an appearance on Hard Copy, a Channels Television programme. Bwala said the president’s position aligns fully with that of the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, on the issue of party leadership in Rivers State.
Yilwatda had earlier stated on January 3 that Governor Fubara leads the APC in the state, explaining that the party’s structure recognises sitting governors as leaders at the state level. He also urged governors to practise inclusiveness and avoid marginalising other party members.
Speaking on the programme, Bwala stressed that Governor Fubara should be allowed to govern without unnecessary obstruction. He said, “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 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.”
According to Bwala, President Tinubu’s stance is consistent with the party’s constitution and democratic norms. He said, “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.”
Bwala also responded to concerns about the influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, within the federal government, noting that political appointments do not override national interest. He said, “We’ve heard people complain that as a cabinet member, Wike enjoys certain benefits. 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 added that the lingering tension between Wike and Fubara was being addressed. According to him, “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 further noted that existing court orders have halted any impeachment moves and that the party’s position is clear that no one should obstruct Governor Fubara’s administration. Bwala also emphasized that President Tinubu respects the autonomy of states, including those governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).