Rivers State is currently at the center of a political storm that could have severe repercussions for Nigeria’s national security. The conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor Nyesom Wike is threatening to destabilize the region, with experts warning of potential violence if the situation is not carefully managed.

The crisis began following disputed local government elections, which have triggered a power struggle between the two political heavyweights. Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has been accused of meddling in Rivers politics, much to the frustration of the current governor, Fubara. Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, warned that the conflict could escalate, drawing parallels to the political turmoil that led to Nigeria’s 1966 coup.

Bode George has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and mediate in the conflict before it spirals out of control. The economic importance of Rivers State, being one of Nigeria's oil-producing regions, makes stability in the region crucial for the country’s survival. The political ambitions of key figures in the state are at the heart of the conflict, with eyes already on the 2027 general elections.

---