Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has publicly distanced himself from the controversy surrounding the screening of aspirants within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.
The former Rivers State governor insisted that he should not be blamed for every political development taking place within the party structure in the state.
Speaking amid rising tension over the screening exercise, Wike dismissed allegations that he personally influenced the disqualification of aspirants linked to Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In his reaction, Wike stated that he was “not a native doctor” capable of controlling every political outcome within Rivers State politics.
The remarks followed reports that several aspirants believed to be loyal to Wike were cleared by the APC screening committee, while candidates associated with Governor Fubara allegedly failed the screening process.
The development has intensified speculation that the FCT minister still wields strong political influence in Rivers State despite no longer serving as governor.
However, Wike rejected claims that he directly controlled the screening exercise.
According to him, party committees are set up to carry out independent responsibilities and should not be automatically linked to his personal influence or political interests.
The Rivers political crisis remains one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political rivalries ahead of
the 2027 elections.
The relationship between Wike and Governor Fubara, once politically aligned, deteriorated shortly after Fubara assumed office as governor.
Since then, both camps have remained locked in a prolonged struggle over political control and influence within Rivers State.
The conflict has affected the State House of Assembly, local government structures, party leadership, and wider political alliances across the state.
Observers say the APC screening controversy is only the latest episode in the ongoing power struggle between both camps.
Political analysts believe the screening outcome strengthens the position of politicians loyal to Wike ahead of future elections.
Critics, however, argue that the pattern of clearances and disqualifications raises concerns about fairness, inclusiveness, and internal party democracy.
Some stakeholders fear that excluding aspirants linked to Governor Fubara could deepen political divisions within the APC in Rivers State ahead of 2027.
Wike’s comments appear aimed at reducing perceptions that he controls every aspect of Rivers State politics.
His “native doctor” remark has generated reactions across political and social circles, with many interpreting it as a dismissal of claims of total political control.
Despite his denial, political observers maintain that Wike remains one of the most influential figures in Rivers State and Nigerian politics.
His position as FCT minister and his established political network continue to place him at the centre of major political calculations.
Governor Fubara has remained largely silent on the latest screening controversy, although tensions between both camps persist.
Analysts believe ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations may still shape future political alignments in the state.
The Rivers crisis continues to attract national attention due to the state’s political and economic importance.
As one of Nigeria’s major oil-producing states, Rivers plays a key role in elections, party structures, and regional influence.
Political experts say the rivalry between Wike and Fubara could significantly influence political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For now, Wike insists he cannot be held responsible for every controversial development within Rivers APC politics.
Whether his clarification reduces tension or fuels further political debate remains to be seen.
What is clear is that Rivers State remains at the centre of one of Nigeria’s most intense political power struggles as 2027 approaches.