The Digest:
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has affirmed that Siminalayi Fubara is the recognized leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State. Bwala stated that this position aligns with both the party's national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and President Tinubu, who respect party procedures and constitutional order. He clarified that Nyesom Wike, despite being a cabinet member, is not an APC member and therefore cannot lead the party in the state. Bwala also remarked that Wike has been "adequately compensated" for his support but that such compensation does not override national interest. He emphasized that the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara must follow the rule of law.
Key Points:
- This statement is a significant political endorsement from the Presidency, aiming to solidify Governor Fubara's authority within the APC structure in Rivers.
- It attempts to formally delineate the spheres of influence, limiting Wike's political reach to the PDP while affirming Fubara's control over the ruling party's state apparatus.
- The comment about Wike being "compensated" suggests a transactional view of political alliances and hints at potential limits to his influence.
- It reinforces the President's purported stance of non-interference, urging that governors be allowed to govern regardless of party affiliation.
- The declaration seeks to provide a constitutional and party-backed framework for resolving the Rivers political crisis, prioritizing legal processes.
This presidential alignment is expected to shape the dynamics of the impeachment process and the broader political conflict in Rivers State, potentially recalibrating the balance of power between Fubara and Wike.
Sources: The Cable, Channels
