Unbecoming! APC Scribe Slams NWC Chief Over ‘So-Called Governor’ Jab at Fubara

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, has openly rebuked a member of the party’s National Working Committee over comments he described as disrespectful to the office of the Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

Basiru said it was “unfortunate” that a senior party official, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the APC in the South-South zone, could publicly refer to an elected governor as a “so-called governor,” warning that such language was unbecoming of anyone occupying a sensitive leadership position within the ruling party.

“No matter what his allegiances are to anybody, it is unbecoming of somebody holding such a sensitive position, and it should not be encouraged by anybody,” he said.

According to the senior party man, personal allegiances or political leanings cannot justify statements that undermine democratic institutions or demean constitutionally recognised offices.

The APC scribe stressed that the governorship is an exalted position that must be accorded respect at all times, regardless of political differences or internal disputes.

“The office of the governor is an exalted position, and whoever is occupying it must be respected, irrespective of whatever political differences you have,” Basiru said.

The former Senator noted that even if the governor in question were not a member of the party, it would still be wrong to use such language, arguing that respect for elected officeholders is fundamental to democratic culture and political maturity.

Basiru cautioned that actions and statements by party leaders carry weight and should promote discipline, unity, and respect, rather than inflame tensions or deepen political animosities.

And, added that such conduct should not be encouraged by anyone within the party, especially at a time when restraint and responsibility are required from those in leadership positions.

The remarks are seen as a firm signal from the party’s national secretariat that internal disagreements must not cross the line into personal attacks or institutional disrespect, even amid heightened political tensions surrounding Rivers State.