By DAVID OKON WILLIAM

The political crisis in Rivers State has once again highlighted the intense and often ruthless nature of power struggles in Nigerian politics. What initially appeared to be a governance issue has revealed itself as a deeper contest for control between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. At the heart of this turmoil is not policy or service delivery but a fundamental question of political dominance—who holds power, who controls the levers of government, and who dictates the rules of engagement.

The unfolding events took a dramatic turn when the Rivers State House of Assembly, dominated by Wike’s loyalists, initiated impeachment proceedings against Fubara, citing various infractions. Tensions escalated, culminating in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention, declaring a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State. This rare federal move underscored both the political and security dimensions of the crisis, especially given the strategic importance of the oil-rich state.

Beyond the immediate players, this crisis reflects a larger pattern in Nigerian politics—one where godfatherism, strategic loyalty, and power consolidation determine political survival. The fate of Governor Fubara serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the unspoken rules that have long governed political transitions in Nigeria.

The Anatomy of the Power Struggle

At its core, the Rivers State crisis is not an ideological or governance-related dispute; rather, it is a contest for power, with Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike representing different factions in this political chess game. The stakes are high because Rivers State is not just another Nigerian state – it is one of the country’s most economically significant regions due to its vast oil resources. Control over its political machinery equates to influence over a critical revenue hub.

Understanding the Political Rules Fubara Broke

While Fubara might have been well-intentioned in his attempt to assert independence, his political miscalculations violated key unwritten rules in Nigerian politics:

1. Loyalty in the First Term: In Nigeria’s political landscape, first-term governors who owe their rise to political godfathers are expected to demonstrate unwavering loyalty. Fubara, having been handpicked by Wike, was anticipated to govern under his mentor’s influence, at least for the first tenure.

2. Strategic Timing for Rebellion: If a protégé intends to break free from their godfather’s control, the appropriate time is after securing a second term. Many successful governors, including Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom) and Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), understood this and waited before making independent moves. Fubara’s defiance came too early, leaving him vulnerable.

3. Overestimation of Political Power: Politics is dynamic, with shifting alliances and fluid support bases. Fubara underestimated Wike’s entrenched political structures and overestimated his ability to command loyalty without consolidating power first.

History has shown that defying these rules can be politically fatal. Akinwunmi Ambode, the former governor of Lagos State, learned this lesson the hard way. His premature rebellion against his political benefactor led to his swift ousting, turning him into a cautionary tale for others.

The Power Play: Why Wike Holds the Advantage

Despite criticisms of his political style, Nyesom Wike’s mastery of Nigerian politics is undeniable. His continued dominance in Rivers State is a product of calculated strategy rather than luck. Several factors tilt the balance in his favor:

1. Legislative Control: The Rivers State House of Assembly remains populated by Wike’s loyalists, who wasted no time in initiating impeachment proceedings against Fubara. In Nigerian politics, having a supportive legislature is critical to maintaining power.

2. Federal Influence: Wike’s role as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under President Tinubu provides him with direct access to national power structures. This connection enables him to leverage federal backing when necessary.

3. Security Networks: Beyond votes and legislative support, Nigerian politics is also shaped by control over security agencies. Wike’s federal connections afford him an advantage in influencing key security institutions, from the police to the DSS and military

4. Financial Resources: Money remains a key determinant in political battles. Wike’s established financial networks allow him to fund political activities, mobilize support, and maintain loyalty among influential figures.

Against this backdrop, Fubara’s resistance appears ill-equipped. Unlike Wike, he lacks a solid political base, financial war chest, or federal-level influence. His attempt to challenge Wike without first securing these critical elements has placed him at a significant disadvantage.

The Federal Intervention: A Rare but Necessary Move?

President Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State is not just a reaction to political infighting but also a strategic move to prevent further destabilization in an economically vital region. While such interventions are rare in democratic settings, the federal government justified its actions on the grounds of maintaining order amid growing security threats, including pipeline vandalism.

This intervention raises several critical questions:

Is this a precedent for future political crises? If similar conflicts arise in other states, will the federal government intervene in the same manner?

Does this signal a shift in the balance of power? By stepping in, has the presidency effectively curbed Wike’s influence, or has it merely provided him with an opportunity to re-strategize?

What does this mean for the rule of law? The suspension of an elected governor and legislature, even temporarily, presents a delicate balance between constitutional authority and federal oversight.

Regardless of these concerns, the immediate effect is clear: the federal government has sent a strong message that political crises will not be allowed to spiral into outright chaos, particularly in resource-rich regions.

Lessons for Future Political Leaders

The Rivers State saga offers invaluable lessons for politicians navigating the complexities of Nigerian power dynamics:

1. Political Loyalty is Strategic, Not Sentimental: Politicians who rise through the ranks with the help of a godfather must understand that loyalty—at least in the short term—is often a prerequisite for survival.

2. Timing is Everything: Defiance against a political benefactor must be meticulously timed. Those who challenge the status quo prematurely risk political oblivion.

3. Building Independent Power Structures is Essential: Before confronting a dominant figure, one must establish alternative support networks—whether through legislative alliances, financial backing, or grassroots mobilization.

4. Federal Influence Can Make or Break a Political Career: A governor’s survival often depends not just on state-level control but also on strategic relationships at the national level.

Conclusion: A Battle of Strategy, Not Sentiment

The Rivers State political crisis is a stark reminder that Nigerian politics is a game of power, influence, and strategic calculation. While many might sympathize with Governor Fubara’s attempt to assert his independence, his approach lacked the patience, foresight, and tactical planning required to succeed in the country’s complex political terrain.

Wike, on the other hand, remains a seasoned player who understands the system and its unwritten rules. His influence, bolstered by federal connections and deep-rooted political structures, positions him as a formidable force in Rivers State and beyond.

As the dust settles, the key question remains: will Fubara learn from this setback and recalibrate his political strategy, or will he suffer the fate of those who misread the realities of power? In the unforgiving world of Nigerian politics, only time will tell.

•Dr. David William Writes from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.