During the discussion, Otubanjo acknowledged that Fubara had faced difficult political circumstances in recent months, especially following his withdrawal from the APC governorship primary election.
However, he argued that the governor also played a role in creating the situation that eventually turned against him.
Speaking during the interview, Otubanjo stated, “I know that Fubara’s case has been a very bad one, but he got himself into it.” He explained that Fubara initially benefited from the same political structure that later became the source of his challenges.
According to the political analyst, the Rivers governor willingly accepted a political arrangement that concentrated significant influence in the hands of a few powerful actors.
He noted that once disagreements emerged within that structure, it became difficult for Fubara to maintain control over the political machinery that brought him to office.
Otubanjo maintained that the situation reflects a broader issue in Nigerian politics where many politicians rely heavily on political godfathers and party structures rather than building independent grassroots influence.
He warned that such arrangements often lead to conflicts when personal or political interests begin to clash.
The professor also observed that despite the ongoing crisis, Fubara still retains public sympathy among many residents of Rivers State. He argued that some voters may view the governor as a victim of internal political battles within the ruling APC.
Otubanjo further stated that the unfolding events in Rivers State could influence political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly if opposition parties succeed in attracting dissatisfied political actors from the APC.
He concluded by stressing that political stability in Rivers State would depend largely on how party leaders and stakeholders manage their differences in the coming months.
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