APC Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda Sets Conditions for Fubara’s Second Term Amid Rivers Crisis
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has addressed the escalating political tensions in Rivers State, clarifying the party’s position regarding Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Ejes Gist News reports that Yilwatda formally recognized Governor Fubara as the leader of the APC in Rivers State, while emphasizing that leadership must remain inclusive and aligned with the party’s internal democratic processes.
Fubara’s Leadership in APC Rivers State
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Hard Copy, Yilwatda stated:
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“Governor Fubara is the leader of the APC in Rivers State, but he would need to coordinate with every other person in the state.”
The APC chairman stressed that no individual can control the party in isolation, signaling that Fubara’s authority is acknowledged but not absolute.
Context of the Rivers Crisis
The ongoing political tension in Rivers State is rooted in the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Fubara’s move to the APC intensified the dispute, especially after he declared himself the “001” of the party in the state.
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Wike, however, rejected Fubara’s claim, insisting that he continues to control the state’s political structure. The former governor also alleged cooperation between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to advance President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid in Rivers State.
APC Chairman on Primaries and Party Loyalty
Yilwatda clarified his position regarding the party’s upcoming primaries, emphasizing impartiality:
“I don’t choose who to support in the state’s primary election. If Fubara emerges as the APC candidate, I’ll support him.”
He added that the APC would back whichever candidate wins the primary, irrespective of personal loyalty or preference:
“If he loses the primary, I’ll sympathize with him and go with the person who wins the primary election.”
This approach underscores the APC’s commitment to internal democracy, while leaving Fubara’s political future dependent on the outcome of the primaries.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
Yilwatda’s remarks highlight that Fubara’s path to a second term under the APC will require navigating both party politics and internal consensus. The Rivers State political landscape remains highly contested, with both Fubara and Wike actively shaping alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political analysts note that the chairman’s statement seeks to maintain party cohesion in a state where tensions could otherwise escalate, while signaling that leadership claims must align with formal party procedures.
Why you should know
The Rivers crisis illustrates broader challenges for the APC in consolidating influence in states with complex political histories. Yilwatda’s statements clarify the party’s approach to leadership recognition and candidate support, emphasizing coordination, internal democracy, and adherence to party primaries.
Observers suggest that the coming months will be crucial, as the APC navigates internal dynamics in Rivers State and positions itself for the 2027 electoral cycle.
