Human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, has attributed the ongoing tensions between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to political rivalry over state resources.

Speaking on The Morning Brief, a programme on Channels Television monitored by Patriotic Insights News, Effiong said the dispute goes beyond constitutional arguments, noting that the crux of the matter is the management and control of Rivers State’s wealth.

“What is unfolding in Rivers State is essentially a political enmity between the FCT minister and Governor Fubara,” Effiong said. “This is not just about constitutional interpretation. The Rivers State House of Assembly itself has shown little regard for the constitution in this matter.

“We are dealing with a state that is richly endowed with natural resources, particularly petroleum, which remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. Reports suggest there is over N600 billion at stake, and certain political actors have vested interests in that money.”

Effiong questioned the focus of the political battle, asking: “Is this dispute about roads that have not been constructed or healthcare for Rivers residents? Clearly, the disagreement has been elevated from personal political interests to a state affair.”

The lawyer’s comments highlight the growing perception that political maneuvering over financial resources is central to the tensions between Wike and Fubara, rather than purely legal or procedural issues.