APC Chairman Declares Fubara APC Leader in Rivers, Sets Condition for Second-Term Support

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has formally recognised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as the leader of the party in the state, PulseNets learnt.

The declaration comes against the backdrop of escalating political tensions between Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over the control of political leadership and structures in Rivers State.

PulseNets reported that following his defection to the APC, Governor Fubara had publicly positioned himself as the party’s foremost figure in the state, describing himself as the “001” of the APC in Rivers State.

However, Wike swiftly dismissed the claim, insisting that he retains firm control of the state’s political machinery. The former Rivers governor further argued that the alliance between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, formed to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anticipated 2027 re-election bid, places the political structure firmly under his influence.

Reacting to the growing controversy, Yilwatda clarified the APC’s position, stating that while Fubara is recognised as the party’s leader in Rivers State, internal party processes and coordination remain paramount. PulseNets obtained his remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Hard Copy programme.

“Governor Fubara is the leader of the APC in Rivers State, but leadership also comes with the responsibility of working with all stakeholders within the party,” Yilwatda said.

He further distanced himself from influencing the outcome of the party’s primaries, stressing that his support would be determined strictly by the democratic process.

Also Read: 2027 Elections: I Have Strong Grassroots Structure to Deliver Rivers for Tinubu — Gov Fubara

“I do not decide who emerges from the primaries in any state,” the APC chairman stated. “If Governor Fubara wins the APC primary election, I will fully support him for a second term.”

Yilwatda added that party loyalty would ultimately rest with whoever secures the ticket.

“If he does not win the primary, I will empathise with him and stand with the candidate duly chosen by the party,” he concluded.