Tony Okocha, the former Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has criticized Governor Sim Fubara, warning that the governor is creating problems for himself that could harm his prospects in the 2027 governorship election. Okocha’s remarks come amidst an ongoing political dispute between Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, now a federal minister. The conflict has continued despite attempts by President Bola Tinubu and other political stakeholders to mediate.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Okocha asserted that Fubara owes his political rise to Wike, who played a significant role in his emergence as governor, noting that Fubara was not a politician before his current position. Okocha accused Fubara of alienating himself and declared that it was his responsibility to “de-market” Fubara and his party ahead of the next election.
“Fubara is creating problems for himself. It is our business to demarket him and his party for us to win in 2027,” Okocha stated.
He further emphasized the strength of Wike’s political influence in Rivers State, expressing confidence that Wike’s structure remains unshakable. Okocha suggested that no politician could dismantle Wike’s political machinery in the foreseeable future.
“I can say to you that for the next 10 years, I do not see any politician destroying the political structure Wike has in Rivers State. I’m not God, but I’m talking about what is possible within human possibility. Wike’s structure cannot be destroyed. It is not possible, not so soon. Let’s leave it there,” Okocha added.
Okocha’s comments underline the deep divisions within the state’s political landscape, as the feud between Fubara and Wike continues to unfold. The former APC chairman’s remarks suggest that the rift may have significant implications for the state’s political dynamics leading up to the 2027 election.
