News
Fubara: ‘Tinubu Sacrificed Rivers People for 2027 Ambition’ – Elders
By: Fabian Apechihin
As the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State winds down, some elders have dismissed the expected return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, arguing that the political balance of power has shifted irreversibly in favour of his predecessor and political godfather, Nyesom Wike.
President Bola Tinubu declared the state of emergency on March 16, 2025, after political unrest and alleged militant attacks on oil pipelines. The directive suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the state Assembly, with former Chief of Naval Staff Ibok-Ete Ibas appointed as Sole Administrator.
Speaking with Punch, Sunny Chukumele, convener of the Coalition of Rivers State Leaders of Thought, accused Tinubu of sacrificing Rivers people for his 2027 re-election bid.
“The state is captured. Rivers has been successfully taken over. The governor has been cowed for the so-called peace to reign — but that peace is in the graveyard. Rivers people look helpless, desolate, and abandoned. The President has sacrificed Rivers people for his 2027 interest,” Chukumele said.
Another elder, Asukewe Iko-Awaji of the Rivers Elders Forum, argued that Fubara’s absence had eroded his political capital and damaged the state’s economy.
“The truth is that damage has been made. Companies have pulled out, projects abandoned. It will take months for him to rebuild momentum,” he said.
However, Olaka Wogu, a close ally of the FCT Minister, downplayed expectations of any major shift upon Fubara’s return. He insisted Wike’s political dominance remained intact.
“People over-speculate on Wike. He is frank and honest about his intentions. The fact is he fought for his structure and kept it. The governor is part of that structure,” Wogu said.
The looming return of Fubara has set the stage for fresh political battles in Rivers, where many believe the last six months have redefined the state’s power map ahead of 2027.
Do you want me to frame this rewrite as a political analysis piece (highlighting implications for 2027) or keep it strictly straight-news reporting?
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
*
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
*
I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
photo
JUST IN: Even Tinubu moves with too many police escorts – Senator Ndume
-
Uncategorized5 years agoFG, states urged to harness flooding for ranching, others with technology – Agbaje
-
Headlines10 years agoBreaking: EFCC seals Borno House of Assembly, as Hon members take to their heels
-
News11 years agoNigeria Security Operatives Stage Manhunt For Homosexual Perpetrator
-
News9 years agoHow 21-year-old Girl fled community over accusation of lesbianism
-
News10 years agoYobe Gov Moves Against Deputy
-
Opinion7 years ago7 signs she has friend zoned you
-
Technology4 years ago
Online job placement company headhunts women
-
Headlines10 years agoBorno Dep Gov Abducts Another Church Leader