Political tension in Rivers deepens as Dokubo accuses Tinubu of meddling

Former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has accused President Bola Tinubu of backing Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in a bid to destabilise Rivers State.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Dokubo expressed dismay over the political crisis between Wike and Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, which has persisted since Fubara took office in 2023. Fubara has previously attributed the ongoing conflict to a power struggle within the state.

Dokubo criticised Tinubu’s involvement, saying, “What I’m trying to say is that with Bola Tinubu becoming president, I should be able to tell him the truth. What is happening in Rivers State where Bola Tinubu is supporting Nyesom Wike to destabilise Rivers State and disturb the peace of Rivers State, and as a stakeholder in Rivers State, I feel totally disappointed for the president to allow his minister serving under him to run amok and judgement and all sort, threatening the people of Rivers State.”

He issued a warning regarding alleged moves to impeach Governor Fubara, saying he won’t stand by and watch Rivers State be destabilised.

“What they are trying to do is that we’re going to remove Fubara, and nothing will happen. What I’m saying is that if you try to remove Fubara, something will happen. That is what I’m talking about. I’m not talking of any personal benefit; I can’t be appointed minister or to any board; I didn’t lobby for anything,” he said.

“I Owe Tinubu for Saving My Life.”

During the interview, Dokubo also reflected on his personal relationship with Tinubu, revealing that the president once saved him from the wrath of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Dokubo stressed his long-standing loyalty to Tinubu, noting that Tinubu had always supported him and until the former Lagos Governor came out to run for president, he never had the opportunity to repay him.

“I supported Mr. President because I knew him before he became senator and president, and, God willing, I will also know him when he ceases to be president. But this is not about me or Tinubu; it’s about my people.

“When I’m speaking about my people, take me out of the way; I’m an individual. My relationship with Tinubu was very robust, and at all times, the benefit I derived from that relationship was one-way traffic, which was from Tinubu alone.

“His coming out for the presidency was the only time I was able to pay him back, and I did. If he comes out tomorrow, I will still do it because, at the time, Obasanjo buried me alive, but he stood by me. I won’t forget in a hurry.”

The former militant stressed that his support for Tinubu transcends personal benefit. “This is about my people, not me. My relationship with Tinubu has always benefited me, and I won’t forget that.”

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