Rivers State is currently embroiled in a period of heightened political tension, largely stemming from the protracted rift between the incumbent Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. This internal struggle within the state's political landscape has led to a series of significant developments and public pronouncements, shaping the dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a recent administrative move, Governor Fubara approved a minor reshuffle of the State Executive Council, redeploying Barrister Christopher Green as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. Green, who previously held the Sports portfolio, transitioned to the Ministry of Justice following an approval at the last State Executive Council meeting for 2025. He is also tasked with coordinating the activities of the Ministry of Sports until a substantive commissioner is appointed. This redeployment, effective immediately, has been framed by the government as an effort to strengthen governance, ensure continuity in service delivery, and optimize the performance of key ministries amidst the ongoing political climate.

However, this development unfolds against a backdrop of escalating political hostilities. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly asserted his significant influence over Rivers State politics, particularly at the grassroots level. He has unequivocally stated that no candidate, including Governor Fubara, can secure electoral victory in the state without his consent and backing. During a public event in Gokana Local Government Area, Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, emphasized his unchallengeable dominance in areas like Gokana. Victor Giadom, the National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the South-South zone, corroborated this, declaring Gokana a "no-go area" for anyone challenging Wike's influence. Giadom asserted that for Governor Fubara to win anything in Gokana, he "must pass through Wike," highlighting the deep alignment of the Gokana people with Wike and President Bola Tinubu.

Several other political figures have echoed Wike's sentiments. Former Senator Magnus Abe expressed Gokana’s loyalty to Wike and President Tinubu, even advising Tinubu against campaigning in Gokana due to assured support. Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Dumle Maol, and Chairman of Gokana Local Government Council, Confidence Deko, also pledged their unwavering support for Wike. Similarly, in Khana Local Government Area, lawmaker Rep. Dumnamene Dekor and Mrs. Barile Nwakoh, representing Khana 1 State Constituency, praised Wike and Tinubu for bringing development to Ogoniland and assured their steadfast support. Dr. Thomas Bariere, Chairman of Khana Local Government Council, also confirmed the continuous support from the people of Khana.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Wike has indicated that Rivers State residents will vote based on principles of unity and shared interest, rather than strictly along party lines, with a clear focus on supporting President Bola Tinubu’s 'Renewed Hope Agenda'. He cautioned residents against repeating past political "mistakes," implying that previous decisions had led to undesirable consequences. Wike, while not directly naming Governor Fubara, made remarks widely interpreted as a reference to the ongoing power struggle, stating, "We won’t make mistakes again. The first one you have done – have they said thank you? So, if you make another mistake, that means they will drive you out." Political activities are expected to formally commence in January 2026, signaling an early phase of mobilization.

The rift has also seen Fubara accused of reneging on agreements reached during a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu in September. Reliable sources suggested that a key part of this agreement was Fubara not seeking a second term. However, Fubara's subsequent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC earlier in December 2025, combined with his recent actions, has been interpreted by observers as indicating an interest in a second-term bid. Wike, on his part, publicly rejected Fubara’s claim of being the leader of the APC in Rivers State, further warning that sudden support for President Tinubu does not guarantee a party ticket in the 2027 elections.

The legislative arm of the state has also become a battleground. On December 30, 2025, members of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly formally returned unsolicited N100,000 cash gifts transferred to their personal accounts on the instructions of Governor Fubara. The House, through its Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints Chairman, Hon. Enemi Aabo George, stated that such public expenditures must follow due process, including legislative approval. The statement accused the governor of consistently drawing from the Consolidated Revenue Account without legislative approval since assuming office, defying warnings, Supreme Court judgments, and constitutional principles of separation of powers. This incident further underscores the renewed hostilities between the Governor and the FCT Minister, and by extension, the legislative arm perceived to be aligned with Wike.

The current tensions are a continuation of a prolonged struggle for control of the state's political structure that began after the 2023 elections. This crisis escalated into a state-level conflict, at times involving the state legislature, and notably resulted in a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025, during which Governor Fubara and members of the House of Assembly were suspended for six months, with a sole administrator appointed. Since returning to office, Fubara has emphasized stability and governance, while Wike has continued to comment on state political developments without directly naming the governor. The unfolding developments, analysts warn, may further stoke political tensions as the state moves closer to the 2027 general elections.