Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri has warned against a planned rally by supporters of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, citing security concerns. Wike’s camp dismissed the claims as baseless, asserting Nigerians’ right to political gatherings. The clash underscores growing tensions between both politicians within the PDP ahead of 2027 elections.
Tensions have escalated between Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over a planned rally by Wike’s supporters in Bayelsa. Governor Diri has raised concerns about the security implications of the event, warning that the state government will not tolerate any disruptions to peace.
On Thursday, Diri urged security agencies, community leaders, and residents to stay vigilant, emphasizing that any attempt to destabilize Bayelsa would not be condoned.
However, Wike’s spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, dismissed the governor’s concerns, labeling them as baseless. In a statement on Friday, Olayinka argued that Nigerians have the right to hold political gatherings and support any leader of their choice. He questioned why Diri would summon the Bayelsa Security Council and Elders Council over mere speculation.
The dispute highlights growing tensions between the two politicians, both members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). While Diri remains a key opposition figure, Wike has aligned himself with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, fueling speculation that he could play a significant role in Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
With Bayelsa once part of Rivers State before its creation in 1996, the region shares deep political and cultural ties. Wike’s ongoing power struggle in Rivers and his broader political ambitions continue to shape the political landscape in the South-South region.
