A former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has notably refrained from involvement in the current political discord in the state, where tensions have risen between the incumbent governor, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Despite his history of conflict with Wike, Amaechi has maintained a conspicuous silence, even as political figures in the state align themselves with either side, as reported by Daily Trust on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Observers have observed Amaechi's gradual disengagement from the affairs of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State following his unsuccessful bid for the party's presidential ticket.
Despite expectations that Amaechi would support Fubara in light of his rivalry with Wike, he has remained aloof.
The dissolution of the Rivers APC state executive council, which was loyal to Amaechi, and the subsequent installation of a caretaker committee aligned with Wike, did not prompt Amaechi's intervention.
Some speculate that Wike's actions may be retaliation for Amaechi's refusal to withdraw his presidential ambitions and support Bola Tinubu during the APC presidential primary.
Additionally, Wike's reported support for Tinubu during the general elections may have strained relations further.
Despite this rift, Amaechi has chosen not to capitalize on the Wike-Fubara conflict to assert his influence.
While other political figures have taken sides in the dispute, including Peter Odili siding with Fubara, Amaechi has refrained from public commentary.
Instead, he pursued his law studies and recently became a member of the Nigerian Bar Association.
Amaechi's associates emphasize his principled nature and expect him to address the situation in due time.
The APC faction in Rivers State, including Tonye Cole and Magnus Abe, has also remained relatively silent on the matter.
Amaechi's media aide asserts that he is actively observing the unfolding events and believes that his legacy and influence in Rivers State politics remain intact despite the challenges.