CUPP accuses Tinubu of federal overreach in Rivers political crisis

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of exerting excessive federal influence over the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, describing the President as a central figure in the dispute between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, and the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Secretary, High Chief Peter Ameh, the opposition coalition alleged that recent interventions in the Rivers State crisis have effectively consolidated federal control over the state’s political affairs.

According to CUPP, the political impasse between Wike and Fubara, which has drawn repeated interventions from the Presidency, including emergency measures and peace agreements, has resulted in the erosion of Rivers State’s political independence.

“President Tinubu is the ultimate winner in the contest between Wike and Fubara,” Ameh said, adding that both leaders now operate under the influence of the Presidency.

He argued that while the dispute appears to be a rivalry between the two political figures, its resolution has placed both firmly within the control of the federal government, limiting their capacity for independent political decision-making.

CUPP further stated that the prolonged crisis has negatively affected governance in Rivers State, with ordinary citizens bearing the brunt of political instability.

“The people of Rivers State are the real losers,” Ameh said, citing disruptions to governance, weakened democratic institutions, and the diversion of attention from development and public welfare to political power struggles.

The coalition warned that continued federal intervention in state political affairs poses a threat to Nigeria’s federal system and could set a troubling precedent if left unchecked.

CUPP called on residents of Rivers State to remain vigilant and to demand accountable and responsible leadership, urging political actors to prioritise governance and citizens’ welfare over personal ambitions.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to the defence of democracy and the rule of law across the country.

The statement was signed by High Chief Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties.