Tensions in Rivers State reached a boiling point late Saturday as a group of angry youth set fire to the private residence of former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), amid accusations of political betrayal and destabilisation.
The attack, which took place under the cover of night on Saturday, March 15, 2025, follows growing discontent over Wike’s alleged role in efforts to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The former governor, once a dominant political figure in Rivers State, has been accused of aligning with pro-Wike lawmakers to remove Fubara from office, a move that has sparked outrage across the state.
Protest Turns Violent as Youths Express Outrage
The group, identified as “Rivers Youth for Change,” stormed Wike’s property in Port Harcourt, setting parts of the building ablaze in what they called a resistance against his betrayal of the PDP.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as protesters chanted slogans and accused Wike of collaborating with the federal government to undermine the party’s dominance in the state.
“Wike is a traitor to his people and to the PDP. He was once our champion, but now he is trying to destroy everything we’ve fought for. We cannot stand by and let him sell out our state,” said one protester, who declined to be named.
While no casualties have been reported, authorities say the damage to the property is extensive.
The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the attack, urging calm as political tensions escalate.
Wike’s Alleged Role in Impeachment Moves
Wike, who served two terms as governor before being appointed as FCT Minister under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has remained a controversial figure within the PDP.
Reports of his alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and efforts to remove Fubara have deepened suspicions that he is working to destabilise the PDP in Rivers State, a key opposition stronghold.
The impeachment effort, if successful, could reshape the political landscape in Rivers and further fracture an already divided PDP.
Fubara, once considered a Wike loyalist, now finds himself at odds with his predecessor, as a battle for control of the state government intensifies.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Political analysts say Wike’s increasing ties with the APC-led federal government raise concerns over his long-term intentions for Rivers State and the PDP.
The incident has further widened factional rifts within the PDP, with some party members accusing Wike of betraying the party for political survival.
Others believe Fubara is being unfairly targeted by forces seeking to assert control over the state’s powerful political machinery.
Authorities Urge Calm Amid Rising Political Unrest
In response to the arson attack, Rivers State police officials have vowed to track down those responsible, stressing the need for peaceful dialogue rather than violence.
Governor Fubara has not yet issued an official statement, but sources close to his administration indicate he is monitoring the situation closely.
Calls for reconciliation and political stability have grown louder as many fear the situation could spiral into further violence.
As the crisis unfolds, Rivers State faces an uncertain political future, with both Wike and Fubara’s positions hanging in the balance.
With emotions running high and loyalties being tested, the coming days may prove pivotal in determining the fate of the state’s political leadership.
