### Tensions Rise Between Wike and APC National Secretary Over Rivers Politics The political landscape in Rivers State has become increasingly contentious as Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), engage in a heated exchange. Wike has issued stern warnings to Basiru regarding his comments and involvement in Rivers State politics, which Wike deems inappropriate and inflammatory. The backdrop of this conflict is the ongoing political dynamics surrounding Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the APC's influence in the region. The Rivers Restoration Movement (RRM) has also expressed concerns that Basiru's remarks could jeopardize President Bola Tinubu's prospects in Rivers State, highlighting the stakes involved in this political clash [https://independent.ng/apc-national-secretarys-remarks-on-wike-could-jeopardise-tinubus-prospects-in-rivers-rrm]. ### Breakdown of the Political Conflict 1. **Wike's Warnings**: Wike has repeatedly cautioned Basiru to refrain from meddling in Rivers politics, labeling the state a "no-go area" for outsiders. He has characterized Basiru's comments as careless and provocative, emphasizing the need for respect towards Rivers' political structures [https://thesun.ng/wike-apc-scribe-fight-over-fubara]. 2. **Basiru's Retaliation**: In response, Basiru has challenged Wike to resign from his ministerial position if he wishes to engage in state politics, accusing him of attempting to destabilize the APC in Rivers. He has also warned Wike against bringing the "spirit of the PDP" into the APC, suggesting that Wike's past affiliations with the opposition party are influencing his current actions [https://independent.ng/resign-as-minister-to-face-rivers-politics-apc-scribe-tells-wike]. 3. **Public Statements and Media Coverage**: The exchange has garnered significant media attention, with various outlets reporting on the escalating tensions. Wike's threats have been described as a warning to Basiru to "be very careful," indicating the seriousness of the situation [https://naijaonpoint.com.ng/video-be-very-careful-dont-say-na-me-burn-your-hand-wike-threatens-apc-national-secretary]. 4. **Implications for Tinubu's Administration**: The Rivers Restoration Movement has expressed concern that Basiru's remarks could undermine President Tinubu's political standing in Rivers State, suggesting that the ongoing feud may have broader implications for the APC's strategy in the region [https://independent.ng/apc-national-secretarys-remarks-on-wike-could-jeopardise-tinubus-prospects-in-rivers-rrm]. ### Supporting Evidence and Context - **Political Dynamics**: The conflict is rooted in the complex political dynamics of Rivers State, where Wike, a former governor, holds significant influence. His warnings to Basiru reflect a broader concern about external interference in local politics. - **Public Sentiment**: Wike's statements resonate with local sentiments, as he positions himself as a defender of Rivers' political integrity against perceived encroachments by the APC [https://blueprint.ng/leave-rivers-alone-wike-warns-apc-national-secretary]. - **Media Coverage**: The media has played a crucial role in amplifying the conflict, with numerous reports detailing the exchanges between Wike and Basiru, highlighting the stakes involved for both parties [https://premiumnewsng.com/2026/01/06/wike-apc-national-secretary-bicker-over-rivers-politics]. ### Conclusion: A Political Standoff with Broader Implications The ongoing confrontation between Nyesom Wike and Ajibola Basiru underscores the fragility of political alliances and the potential for conflict in Nigeria's political landscape. 1. **Wike's Position**: Wike's firm stance against Basiru's involvement in Rivers politics reflects his commitment to maintaining local political autonomy. 2. **Basiru's Challenge**: Basiru's call for Wike to resign indicates a strategic move to assert the APC's authority in Rivers, potentially alienating local supporters. 3. **Impact on Tinubu's Administration**: The conflict poses risks for President Tinubu's administration, as it may affect the APC's electoral prospects in Rivers State. In summary, the clash between Wike and Basiru is not merely a personal feud but a significant political event that could shape the future of the APC in Rivers State and influence national politics [https://independent.ng/apc-national-secretarys-remarks-on-wike-could-jeopardise-tinubus-prospects-in-rivers-rrm].