PORT HARCOURT — Chijioke Ihunwo, a former Obio-Akpor Local Government Chairman and ally of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly rejected assertions that he plans to abandon the governor’s camp and join forces with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
On Saturday, 3 January 2026, Ihunwo used his verified X account to describe recent reports as “false and misleading.” He said there had been no discussion about leaving Governor Fubara’s political group and that he remained firmly committed to the governor’s vision and agenda for Rivers State.
Ihunwo loyalty to Fubara remains firm
Ihunwo told followers that rumours of his resignation from the Fubara group were unfounded and urged the public to disregard what he termed “fake news.” He reiterated his support for Governor Fubara and called on party members and residents to focus on the administration’s developmental priorities.
“Reports alleging I will resign from the Fubara Group are false. I have not resigned and have no such plans. I remain firmly with Gov. Siminalayi Fubara. Disregard the fake news,” Ihunwo wrote in his post.
The clarification comes amid shifting alignments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State. Recently, Dr Nname Ewor, a factional chairman in the state and a former Fubara supporter, formally merged his faction into the caretaker committee led by Aaron Chukwemeka. That committee is backed by Minister Nyesom Wike, a powerful figure in national and regional politics.
Ewor’s move to the Wike-supported faction included public criticism of Governor Fubara, whom he accused of being untrustworthy and criticised for his handling of efforts to resolve the state’s political crisis. The reshuffle highlights ongoing tensions within the PDP at state level and reflects broader struggles for influence among senior party figures.
Political analysts say Ihunwo’s prompt denial is likely intended to reassure supporters and prevent further erosion of Fubara’s local base. By addressing the rumour directly and quickly, Ihunwo seeks to contain speculation and deter any momentum that might shift additional allies away from the governor.
For Governor Fubara, maintaining unity among local leaders is important as he navigates the protracted crisis within the state party apparatus. The governor’s supporters have been working to consolidate control and keep focus on governance issues while countering narratives that could weaken their position.
Observers note that internal party realignments are not uncommon in Nigerian politics, particularly in periods of heightened competition at state and national levels. Such movements can alter local power dynamics but do not always translate into broader policy change.
As the story develops, attention will be on whether other local figures follow Ewor’s lead or stand with Fubara. For now, Ihunwo’s clear affirmation of his position seeks to steady Fubara’s camp and signal continuity of support amid a fractious political environment in Rivers State.
Key Takeaways:
- Chijioke Ihunwo denies reports he will defect to Nyesom Wike, calling the claims false and misleading.
- Ihunwo reiterates his commitment to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and urges the public to ignore the rumours.
- The statement follows Dr Nname Ewor’s formal merger with a Wike-backed PDP faction, highlighting ongoing political realignment in Rivers State.
- The situation underlines tensions within the PDP in Rivers but Ihunwo’s stance seeks to stabilise Fubara’s support base.
