During the discussion, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs questioned the political strategy behind sidelining Fubara from the APC governorship process.
He argued that the decision may weaken the party’s support base in Rivers State and across parts of the South-South region.
Speaking during the interview, Otubanjo stated, “By removing Fubara as governor, you are shooting yourself in the leg.”
He made the comment while reacting to the political influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the growing tensions within Rivers politics.
According to Otubanjo, many voters may interpret the situation as an attempt to unfairly remove a sitting governor from the political equation.
He explained that such perceptions could trigger sympathy among sections of the electorate who may feel dissatisfied with how events have unfolded.
The political scientist also argued that weakening Fubara politically could ultimately hurt the APC’s electoral chances in Rivers State. He noted that riverine communities and other groups within the state may become alienated if they believe their interests are being ignored in the ongoing political arrangements.
Otubanjo maintained that Rivers State remains strategically important in national politics and warned that internal divisions within the APC could provide opportunities for opposition parties to gain ground before the next election.
He further observed that the evolving political climate across the country suggests that alliances and defections may continue in the months ahead. According to him, several politicians are already repositioning themselves as the race for the 2027 elections gradually intensifies.
The professor concluded by stressing that Nigerian politics often changes rapidly, adding that current political calculations in Rivers State may not necessarily determine the final outcome of the next governorship election.
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