Nigerian Afrobeats star, David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has in the release of a new lyric referenced Rivers State political figures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The line, “Shey you want Fubara? You go do like Wike,” came along in the remix of Shakabulizzy by rising artist Mavo, featuring Davido.
NPO Reports recalls that in May 2023, the relationship between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and Rivers State Governor, Simnalayi Fubara broke down after Fubara assumed office.
Wike’s loyalists in the Rivers State House of Assembly had commenced impeachment proceedings against the governor, while Fubara accused his predecessor of trying to exert excessive influence over state affairs.
Fubara began asserting more independence than Wike may have expected, including about internal revenues, control of appointments, etc.
The state assembly in Rivers fractured into two factions: one loyal to Wike, one loyal to Fubara. This led to impeachment notices, rival assemblies, buildings burned, etc.
Several legal battles ensued: courts in Rivers and at the federal level got involved, including the Supreme Court of Nigeria ruling that swung in favour of Wike’s camp.
Because the crisis in Rivers State threatened governance, security and stability, the Bola Tinubu administration declared a state of emergency in the state in March 2025, suspended Fubara and the state assembly (initially) and appointed a sole administrator.
A peace meeting was brokered by President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja in June 2025, at which Wike and Fubara agreed the acrimony was over.
Wike had publicly stated he no longer harboured ill-feeling.
Fubara likewise pledged to commit to the unity of Rivers State.
There are still voices saying the truce is fragile and that underlying issues may not have been fully resolved.
Since the end of the emergency rule and the return of Fubara to Government House, there have been relative peace.