According to a report by Arise News on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Hilliard Eta, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former Acting National Chairman of the ruling party, has publicly supported the National Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Basiru, over his recent intervention in the political tension unfolding in Rivers State.
Eta maintained that Basiru acted within the limits of his constitutional responsibility by defending the internal rules and discipline of the APC at a time when political disagreements in Rivers have drawn national attention.
He explained that the role of the National Secretary includes safeguarding the party’s image and ensuring that members conduct themselves in line with established principles, especially when sensitive political situations are involved.
Speaking during a television programme, Eta clarified that Basiru’s comments were not targeted at any individual out of personal interest but were meant to caution party members against making statements that could undermine party unity or provoke unnecessary conflict.
He noted that the Rivers situation has become highly charged, with emotions running high, and stressed that party officials must be careful not to worsen the situation through careless remarks.
According to him, Basiru’s intervention was necessary to remind members that public communication carries weight and that respect for constituted authorities, regardless of party affiliation, is important in maintaining political stability.
Eta also addressed comments reportedly made by Victor Giadom, a former APC South-South leader, concerning Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
He described such remarks as inappropriate and inconsistent with the official stance of the APC.
He emphasized that the party does not endorse language that questions the legitimacy of a sitting governor or suggests that electoral success is solely dependent on the influence of another political figure.
Eta stressed that internal disagreements or personal opinions should not be expressed in a way that could portray the party as disrespectful to democratic institutions or individuals holding public office.
In explaining the broader context, Eta acknowledged the political weight and administrative record of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State.
He recognized Wike’s reputation for delivering on responsibilities assigned to him in public office.
However, Eta made it clear that political performance or personal admiration does not translate into authority within the APC.
He reiterated that Wike is not a member of the ruling party and therefore has no formal role or influence in its internal decision-making or disciplinary processes, particularly as they relate to Rivers State affairs.
He said, “I love Governor Wike because he gets his job done. As Governor of Rivers State, he got his job done. As FCT Minister, he is getting his job done. But whether I like him or not, he remains not a member of our party and cannot dabble into the affairs of our party.”
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