Fayose Challenges Fubara’s “001” Claim, Cites Tinubu’s Influence in Lagos

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has questioned claims of political leadership in Rivers State, criticizing Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s declaration of himself as “001” in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Fayose made the remarks during an exclusive interview on Arise TV aired Tuesday, drawing parallels with Lagos State, where he argued Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu cannot claim political supremacy, insisting that ultimate authority rests with President Bola Tinubu. He cited the recent impeachment and reinstatement of the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker as proof of Tinubu’s overriding influence.

“The president that I know hates ingratitude; he controls Lagos from the palms of his hands… Will you tell me Sanwo-Olu is the leader in Lagos? Let him come out and say he’s the leader in the state,” Fayose said.

He further described the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State as a political lifeline for Fubara. “The emergency rule was all-winning for Governor Fubara because by now he would have been history… It’s time for Governor Fubara to learn, the way I learnt after my first tenure as governor,” Fayose added.

Fubara, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in December 2025, declared himself “001” during the flag-off of the Rivers Airport Bypass Project, emphasizing his loyalty to the party and President Tinubu. His move followed the defection of 15 Rivers State House of Assembly members, including Speaker Martin Amaewhule.

However, former Governor Nyesom Wike dismissed Fubara’s claim, insisting that APC registration is conducted at ward and local government levels, and that no statewide “001” position exists. “Leadership is not because I’m a governor… You must have something that makes you a leader,” Wike stated.

The comments come amid a protracted political feud between Fubara and Wike over control of Rivers State’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.