Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-20 03:14:50
As the legal battle over the dissolution of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State continues, political powerhouses are already gearing up for a fierce and decisive struggle that will shape the future of the party in the state. The battle for control of the APC in Rivers State has reignited old rivalries among key political figures, including former governors Rotimi Amaechi, Nyesom Wike, and Senator Magnus Abe.
Despite their shared roots in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), these three prominent figures have risen to significant political positions in the state. With Wike currently serving as the PDP governor and both Amaechi and Abe vying for influential roles within the APC, the political landscape in Rivers State is highly contentious.
The current political situation has been further complicated by the support of Wike and the G-5 governors for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as the APC presidential candidate. Additionally, internal struggles within the Rivers APC have led to the weakening and eventual dissolution of the party’s state executive committee.
Emeka Beke, the leader of the dissolved exco, was believed to be loyal to Amaechi, despite the former Governor’s strained relationship with the national leadership of the party and the President. Following the dissolution of the executive committee, a new caretaker committee, reportedly aligned with Wike, was put in place, leading to significant opposition from the dissolved exco.
In response to the dissolution, the Beke-led exco has taken legal action, challenging the decision and seeking an interpretation of the APC’s constitution. This ongoing legal battle illustrates the deep-seated divisions and power struggles within the Rivers APC.
The political realignment and shifting allegiances have further intensified the competition between Amaechi, Wike, and Abe. While Wike’s open rift with some key PDP figures has led to realignment within the party, Amaechi’s camp remains a formidable force, with Abe also looking to assert his influence within the APC.
The uncertain political landscape has left party members and analysts questioning how these influential figures will coexist within the same party. Amaechi’s silence following the dissolution of the exco has created uncertainty within the party, and Abe’s return to the APC has stirred further speculation about his political ambitions.
The ongoing struggle for control of the APC in Rivers State is exacerbated by the conflicting egos and ambitions of these prominent figures. The potential for further divisions and internal conflicts within the party underscores the challenges facing the Rivers APC as it prepares for the 2023 general elections.
As the power play continues, the future of the APC in Rivers State remains uncertain. The deep-seated rivalries and political realignments signify a critical juncture for the party, with significant repercussions for the state’s political landscape in the years to come. The outcome of this titanic struggle will undoubtedly shape the future of the APC in Rivers State, with far-reaching implications for the state’s political future.
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