Wike warns Basiru over Rivers APC leadership

• …says ‘Rivers no go area, your hand will burn’

By Jude Opara with agency report

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to Senator Ajibola Basiru, cautioning him against interfering in Rivers State politics following his public comments in support of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike delivered the warning while addressing supporters in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State, declaring the state off-limits to political actors he described as outsiders.

Reacting to Basiru’s remarks, the former Rivers governor warned against taking the support of Rivers leaders for President Bola Tinubu for granted.

“Don’t take our support for Mr President for granted. You have to be very careful with the statements you make,” Wike said.

In a strongly worded statement, the minister declared Rivers a political “no-go area,” warning that anyone who attempts to interfere should be prepared for the consequences.

“When Mr President comes back, when I see the Minister of Blue Economy, I will tell them to tell him – if carry your hand to Rivers State, if your hand burns, don’t say na me burn am,” he said.

Wike added, “I can challenge anybody. This state is a no-go area whether you like it or not. Go and ask those who have tried it before. You open your mouth to talk about Rivers State, anything you see, take it.”

The minister accused unnamed political figures of making “unnecessary noise” about Rivers politics and warned them to focus on their own affairs.

“So take the one you have taken. Stop making unnecessary noise,” he stated.

Senator Basiru had earlier made comments backing Governor Fubara amid the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.