### APC Declares Fubara as Political Leader Amidst Rising Tensions with Wike The political landscape in Rivers State has recently shifted dramatically as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially recognized Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the party's political leader. This declaration comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, who has been vocal in his opposition to Fubara's leadership and ambitions for a second term. The APC's support for Fubara is seen as a strategic move to consolidate power within the party and counter Wike's influence, particularly as the 2027 elections approach. ### Breakdown of the Current Political Dynamics 1. **APC's Support for Fubara**: - The APC, led by National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, has publicly endorsed Fubara as the leader of the party in Rivers State, asserting that he will be supported for a second term if he secures the party's nomination [https://naijaonpoint.com.ng/fubara-is-rivers-political-leader-apc-chair-backs-governor-for-second-term]. - This endorsement is part of a broader strategy to unify the party and strengthen its position against Wike's faction [https://punchng.com/2027-apc-leaders-back-fubara-wike-draws-battle-line]. 2. **Wike's Opposition**: - Nyesom Wike, the former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has declared his intent to block Fubara's re-election, framing the upcoming elections as a critical battle for political control in Rivers State [https://punchng.com/2027-apc-leaders-back-fubara-wike-draws-battle-line]. - Wike's influence remains significant, particularly among the Ijaw community, which has recently shifted its allegiance from Fubara to Wike, citing loyalty and trust earned through Wike's political record [https://dailytimesng.com/ijaw-congress-dumps-fubara-says-wike-earned-rivers-peoples-trust]. 3. **Ijaw Congress's Shift in Loyalty**: - The Rivers Ijaw People's Congress has officially withdrawn its support for Fubara, pledging loyalty to Wike during a public event, which underscores the shifting allegiances within the state's political landscape [https://thesun.ng/rivers-ijaw-congress-dumps-fubara-pledges-loyalty-to-wike]. - This move is indicative of Wike's ongoing influence and the potential challenges Fubara may face in securing a second term [https://newtelegraphng.com/rivers-ijaw-peoples-congress-backs-wike]. ### Supporting Evidence of Political Shifts - **Endorsements and Withdrawals**: - The APC's formal declaration of Fubara as its leader is a significant endorsement, with Yilwatda emphasizing the need for unity within the party [https://elanhub.net/rivers-apc-declares-fubara-political-leader-warns-wike-to-steer-clear-of-party-affairs]. - Conversely, the Ijaw Congress's withdrawal of support for Fubara highlights a critical loss of backing for the governor, which could impact his re-election campaign [https://thewhistler.ng/rivers-ijaw-peoples-congress-withdraws-support-for-fubara]. - **Public Sentiment and Political Strategy**: - The ongoing conflict between Fubara and Wike is not just a personal rivalry but reflects deeper political divisions within Rivers State, with public sentiment potentially swaying in favor of Wike due to his established political legacy [https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/03/fubara-our-leader-in-rivers-apc-natl-chairman-gives-condition-to-support-govs-second-term]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Rivers State Politics In summary, the political landscape in Rivers State is at a critical juncture, with **Fubara's leadership being both affirmed and challenged**. The APC's backing of Fubara is a strategic move to consolidate power, yet the withdrawal of support from influential groups like the Ijaw Congress poses significant challenges. As the 2027 elections approach, the rivalry between Fubara and Wike will likely intensify, shaping the future political dynamics of the state. 1. **Fubara's leadership is officially recognized by the APC**. 2. **Wike's opposition is gaining traction, particularly among key voter groups**. 3. **The Ijaw Congress's shift in loyalty could significantly impact Fubara's re-election bid**. The unfolding events will be crucial in determining the political future of Rivers State as both factions prepare for the upcoming electoral battle.