Amidst a climate of shifting political loyalties in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, a prominent ally of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a robust rebuttal to reports suggesting his imminent departure from the Governor’s camp.
On Saturday, 3 January 2026, the former Chairman of the Obio-Akpor Local Government took to social media to formally address the “false and misleading” narratives circulating regarding his political future. Mr Ihunwo’s intervention comes at a critical juncture, as the state’s political landscape continues to be defined by the high-profile estrangement between the Governor and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Utilising his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Mr Ihunwo sought to extinguish any speculation that he was preparing to follow the path of recent defectors. He asserted that there had been neither discussions nor intentions to leave the Fubara administration’s political fold.
“Reports alleging I will resign from the Fubara Group are false,” Mr Ihunwo stated with categorical clarity. “I have not resigned and have no such plans. I remain firmly with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Disregard the fake news.”
He further emphasised that his loyalty remains “unwavering,” reaffirming his commitment to the Governor’s broader vision and legislative agenda for the state.
The timing of Mr Ihunwo’s declaration is significant, occurring shortly after a notable fracture in the Governor’s support base. Dr Nname Ewor, who previously held a factional Chairmanship of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State and was considered a Fubara loyalist, recently pivoted his allegiance to the Minister.
In a move that underscored the volatility of the current crisis, Dr Ewor merged his faction into the Aaron Chukwemeka-led caretaker committee a body which enjoys the explicit backing of Mr Wike. Upon his defection, Dr Ewor levelled scathing criticisms against the Governor, characterising him as “untrustworthy” and questioning his management of the ongoing reconciliation efforts mediated by the Presidency.
As the political machinery of Rivers State gears up for future electoral cycles, the conflicting stances of figures such as Mr Ihunwo and Dr Ewor highlight a state in flux. While the Governor’s camp maintains that its foundation remains solid, the persistent tug-of-war for the soul of the PDP in Rivers suggests that the “battle of the godfathers” is far from its conclusion.
For now, Mr Ihunwo’s public pledge of fealty serves as a vital counter-narrative to the Minister’s expanding influence, suggesting that Governor Fubara retains key lieutenants in the face of mounting pressure.
