The Presidency has reaffirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is the recognised leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, clarifying that Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is not a member of the party and therefore holds no authority within its leadership structure.
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy and Communication to President Bola Tinubu, made the statement on Channels Television’s Hard Copy programme on Thursday, January 22, 2026, emphasizing that party leadership in Rivers rests solely with Governor Fubara.
He noted that Wike, a former Rivers State governor and current FCT Minister, remains aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and cannot speak or act on behalf of the APC in the state.
Bwala further highlighted that the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, recognises sitting governors in APC-controlled states as the party’s leaders at the state level.
He added that Wike’s federal appointment does not grant him any influence over APC structures or decision-making.
READ ALSO: Impeachment: Rivers Assembly Fighting Fubara Over Access To Treasury — IYC President
The clarification comes amid ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, where the state House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara.
The Presidency stressed that any impeachment process must strictly adhere to constitutional procedures and court orders currently restraining such actions.
By reaffirming Fubara’s position as party leader, the federal government aims to settle disputes over APC leadership in Rivers and reinforce adherence to party rules and governance protocols.