Supreme Court Showdown: Fubara vs Wike – Who’s Really Running Rivers State? 🎭💸

Supreme Court Drama in Rivers State: Fubara vs Wike, Who’s Winning the Battle?

If you thought the drama in Rivers State was over, think again. The Supreme Court just dropped a bombshell, and trust me, it’s the kind of gist that will have you glued to your seat. Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike are back in the spotlight, and this time, it’s all about legal battles, political chess moves, and a ₦5 million fine. Here's what we know, so far.

The Background: Fubara vs Wike, The Battle for Rivers State

When Governor Fubara took over from Wike in 2023, it was supposed to be a smooth transition. But nah, this is Naija politics we’re talking about. Smooth transitions are as rare as a traffic-free day in Lagos. Instead, what we got was a full-blown political crisis. Wike’s loyalists in the Rivers State House of Assembly started rebelling against Fubara, and before you could say “oga at the top,” the assembly was split into factions. Some lawmakers even jumped ship from the PDP to the APC. Drama, right?

Supreme Court Steps In: Two Wins for Wike, One Pending for Fubara

Now, here’s where the Supreme Court comes into the beef between Fubara, the Rivers State governor and Wike, the FCT minister. On February 28, 2025, the court dropped two major rulings that shook the political landscape of Rivers State. First, they barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) from sending federal allocations to Rivers State. Why? Because Fubara had presented the state budget to only four lawmakers instead of the full 32. The court said, “Abeg, go and do it properly.”

In the second ruling, the court reinstated Martin Amaewhule as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Apparently, Fubara’s decision to submit the budget to just four lawmakers was an “aberration.” Justice Emmanuel Akomaye and his panel weren’t having it. They ordered Fubara to re-submit the budget to the full assembly. Ouch.

But wait, there’s more. The Supreme Court also nullified the local government elections held in Rivers State on October 5, 2024. The court said the elections didn’t comply with the Electoral Act 2022, specifically the part about voter registration. So, all that effort? Wasted. The APC, which challenged the elections, must be popping champagne right now.

Fubara’s Political Woes: Is Impeachment on the Table?

With these rulings, Fubara’s position is looking shaky. The nullification of the local government elections and the reinstatement of Amaewhule as Speaker have left him politically vulnerable. Here’s the kicker: the Supreme Court hasn’t ruled on the last dispute, which might favor Fubara. But until then, the 28 lawmakers loyal to Wike could use this loophole to impeach Fubara when they reconvene. And with only four lawmakers on his side, Fubara’s chances don’t look too good. It’s like being in a football match where your opponents have 28 players and you only have 4. Tough break.

Wike’s Criticism: “Fubara, You No Dey Follow Agreement”

Meanwhile, Wike isn’t holding back. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has been throwing shade at Fubara for not honoring the eight-point peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu in 2023. Wike’s basically saying, “You had one job, and you messed it up.” The rift between the two leaders keeps getting deeper, and it’s clear that this isn’t just about politics—it’s personal.

Who Are These Guys? A Quick Intro to Fubara and Wike

Let’s take a quick detour to know the key players in this drama.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara: Born in Opobo Town, Rivers State, Fubara is an accountant-turned-politician. He worked his way up from being a Principal Accountant to becoming the Accountant General of Rivers State before stepping into the governor’s seat in 2023. He’s got the credentials, but can he handle the heat?

Minister Nyesom Wike: A political heavyweight and a strong ally of President Tinubu, Wike is currently the FCT Minister. He’s known for his no-nonsense attitude and his ability to stir the pot. Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him.

What Does This Mean for Rivers State?

The Supreme Court’s rulings have thrown Rivers State into a state of uncertainty. With Fubara’s leadership under threat and Wike’s loyalists gaining ground, the political future of the state is up in the air. Will Fubara bounce back, or will Wike’s camp take control? Only time will tell.

One thing’s for sure: this isn’t just a political battle—it’s a full-blown Naija soap opera. And like any good soap opera, we’ll be here, popcorn in hand, waiting for the next episode.

So, who’s side are you on? Fubara or Wike? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s gist!