The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has leveled serious accusations against his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, alleging the cancellation of employment for 10,000 youths. These youths were reportedly engaged by Wike’s administration shortly before he handed over power. Wike made these claims during a “thank you” visit to Ahoada East Local Government Area in Rivers State, expressing his dismay at the governor’s actions.
Wike further criticized Governor Fubara for allegedly claiming credit for significant road projects that were initiated during his tenure as governor. He characterized the current governor as “a bad child” for not continuing the legacy projects he established to enhance Rivers State’s standing.
Featured snippet paragraph: The primary reason for the conflict stems from Governor Fubara’s alleged decision to revoke the employment of 10,000 youths previously hired by Nyesom Wike’s administration, a move Wike described as a betrayal of legacy and development.
According to Wike, his administration’s focus on youth employment and critical infrastructure was a deliberate strategy to elevate Rivers State’s reputation. He emphasized the substantial investment made in the 10,000 youth employment program, which he claims was abruptly terminated by the current leadership.
What is the core of the dispute between Wike and Fubara? The core of the dispute lies in Governor Fubara’s alleged termination of 10,000 youth employment positions established by Nyesom Wike and the governor’s alleged appropriation of Wike’s legacy projects.
Wike also voiced his displeasure regarding the current administration taking public credit for major road constructions. He specifically mentioned the dualization of the Ahoada road, a project he initiated and saw through its first phase, with the second phase planned to extend to Omoku. The Emohua–Kalabari Road project was also highlighted as an initiative awarded during his time.
He detailed the financial commitment to these projects, noting that the Ahoada–Omoku and Emohua–Kalabari roads had an estimated cost exceeding ₦80 billion. The payment structure was designed for completion within two years, with substantial upfront payments made for other projects.
Wike questioned the concept of continuity in governance when foundational work is disregarded. He expressed concern that Rivers State, once highly respected nationally during his governorship, has seemingly lost its esteemed position.
He recalled his handover message, urging his successor to continue the programs aimed at making the state a respected entity. Wike lamented the current state of affairs, contrasting it with the admiration Rivers State commanded during his leadership.
Adding to the discourse, the Leader of the Renewed Hope Family in Ahoada, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, stated that Governor Fubara’s emergence was based on political directives, mirroring the state’s vote for President Bola Tinubu. Nwuche reaffirmed Ahoada’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope political movement.
Nwuche commended Wike for his significant contributions to Ahoada’s development and his political support for Tinubu and the current Rivers governor. He asserted that no previous governor had demonstrated the same level of commitment to Ahoada’s progress as Wike.
He issued a stern warning to “interlopers” to refrain from interfering in Rivers State politics, emphasizing the unique political landscape of the state. Nwuche stressed that political strategies are local and urged external actors to focus on their own regions.
Nwuche concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and gratitude in leadership. He cautioned that internal divisions weaken political structures and that a leader chosen from within a team is expected to show gratitude and collaborate with the entire group. Divided leadership, he argued, is not a sign of gratitude.
