The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the greatest casualty of the prolonged political crisis in the state, arguing that the governor’s political standing was severely weakened by the conflict.

Speaking during a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike said Fubara made a series of political mistakes after assuming office, including relying on advisers whose counsel, he claimed, deepened the dispute rather than resolving it.

According to the former Rivers governor, the crisis cost Fubara significant political influence, leaving him without control of the State House of Assembly and unable to oversee a successful local government election. Wike noted that the governor’s earlier council election was eventually nullified by the Supreme Court, resulting in the removal of the elected officials.

He maintained that impeachment is a constitutional process but stressed that it is often deployed as a political instrument and should only be pursued with caution and due process. He added that political disagreements sometimes require compromise to preserve stability.

Wike also pointed to the loyalty of members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, saying Fubara failed to win over lawmakers despite the political battle. He argued that the governor’s inability to secure the backing of legislators reflected his weakened position within the state’s political structure.

The FCT minister further claimed that the crisis had diminished Fubara’s chances of securing another term in office. He recalled encouraging the governor during the launch of the Ring Road project, saying successful delivery of key infrastructure could have strengthened his political future.

Blaming some of Fubara’s associates for the situation, Wike said several individuals who publicly supported the governor offered little practical assistance during the crisis and instead encouraged confrontation.

While expressing sympathy for the governor, Wike insisted that Rivers State also suffered from the prolonged political dispute. He described politics as a contest for power, adding that political leaders must make strategic decisions that ultimately serve the interests of the people.