Tension Rises as Wike and Diri Disagree Over Mega Rally Plans in Bayelsa

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike are at odds over a planned mega rally by Wike’s supporters in Bayelsa. Their recent remarks suggest a growing political rift.

Security Concerns Over Rally Plans

Reports indicate that Wike’s supporters are not only organizing a mega rally but also planning to inaugurate a support group for the minister. Governor Diri has raised security concerns, warning that any event disrupting the state’s peace will not be tolerated. He urged security agencies, youth groups, elders, and traditional rulers to stay vigilant.

However, Wike’s spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, dismissed these concerns as baseless. In a statement from Abuja, he argued that Nigerians have the right to express their political support freely. He questioned why Governor Diri would involve the state’s Security Council and Elders Council over a mere suspicion of a rally. According to him, Wike would notify security agencies if he planned to attend any political gathering.

Olayinka advised Diri to focus on governance rather than raising unnecessary security alarms.

Political Implications in the South-South

Bayelsa and Rivers states share historical and political ties, as Bayelsa was carved out of Rivers in 1996. Wike, a former Rivers governor, is currently locked in a power struggle with his suspended successor, Siminalayi Fubara. Their political battle has drawn national attention.

Governor Diri is one of the leaders who condemned President Bola Tinubu’s emergency rule declaration in Rivers, which stems from the Wike-Fubara conflict. While both Diri and Wike belong to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike has been working closely with Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Many believe that Tinubu is positioning Wike to help secure votes in the South-South for the 2027 election. This development could shift the region’s political landscape, raising further tensions within the PDP.