Rivers Crisis: ‘My Respect for Tinubu Should Not Be Mistaken for Weakness’ — Wike
- Advertisement -
“It’s not water flowing in my body, it’s blood,” Wike declares in emotional interview
Wike Breaks Silence on Rivers Political Crisis
Amid the escalating political crisis rocking Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has issued a defiant and emotionally charged statement affirming his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while warning political actors against interpreting his respect as weakness.
- Advertisement -
In an exclusive interview aired on ESET TV on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Wike said:
“It will be difficult for me to disobey Mr. President, but he should also know that it’s not water flowing in my body, it’s blood.”
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the comment was not just a show of reverence for the president but a subtle message to those who may perceive Wike’s silence as surrender in the face of increasing tension between him and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
- Advertisement -
Also Read : Breaking: Cross River Governor, Others Storm Akwa Ibom as Umo Eno Defects to APC
Fubara Betrayed Me — Wike
Wike, who had personally backed Fubara’s rise to power, expressed regret over the turn of events in their political relationship. He likened the ongoing feud to a son turning against his own father.
- Advertisement -
“I raised him, I nurtured him politically. Now he wants to destroy the very house that made him,” he said bitterly.
According to TJ News Nigeria, the conflict between both men has created a deep divide in Rivers politics. Wike accused Governor Fubara of being influenced by external forces bent on destabilizing the political structure he helped build.
“It’s like a son trying to kill his own father after being raised and nurtured by him.”
Peace Must Be Genuine — Wike Warns
The FCT Minister questioned the sincerity of current peace efforts, calling out the cosmetic nature of reconciliation attempts made by some party stakeholders.
- Advertisement -
“Peace must be genuine, not just on social media or in press statements,” Wike said. “There must be real involvement from lawmakers, stakeholders, and party elders.”
This stance aligns with Wike’s long-standing political philosophy of “practical engagement over political showmanship.”
No Plans to Leave PDP, But Prepared for Battle
Despite strong speculation suggesting a possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike categorically denied any such intention.
“I have no plans to leave the PDP,” he affirmed. “But make no mistake, I am ready for what lies ahead.”
TJ News Nigeria learnt that Wike’s resolve is also aimed at dispelling rumours of shifting political allegiance, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.
Political observers, however, believe that Wike is keeping his options open, given the strategic importance of Rivers State in national politics and the volatile nature of political alliances.
Political Implications for 2027 Elections
The Wike-Fubara feud is already raising red flags within the PDP, particularly over the party’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections. Internal divisions, if unresolved, could weaken the party’s standing in one of its strongholds.
TJ News Nigeria reports that analysts have warned the PDP leadership to move swiftly in mediating the crisis to prevent the party from losing ground in Rivers, a key state in South-South Nigeria.
Wike Sends Strong Signal to Tinubu and Critics
Wike’s message is unmistakable—while he remains a loyal supporter of President Tinubu, his loyalty does not extend to being politically incapacitated.
His quote, “It’s not water flowing in my body, it’s blood,” has become the headline across national discourse, symbolizing resistance, determination, and political combativeness.
As the 2027 race draws closer, all eyes will be on Wike and the fate of Rivers PDP, as this crisis could either reshape or fracture the party’s future.
- Advertisement -