Rivers political crisis resolved as Wike, Fubara reconcile after Tinubu’s intervention

In a major political breakthrough, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that the protracted crisis in Rivers State has been resolved, marking a new phase of cooperation between him and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The reconciliation comes after a high-level meeting convened late Wednesday night by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The closed-door session brought together Wike, Governor Fubara, and key members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in a bid to end the months-long political standoff.

Wike and Fubara had been embroiled in a fierce power tussle that spilled into the state legislature, sparking legal battles and deepening political instability in the oil-rich state. However, following the intervention of the President, both parties have reportedly agreed to put their differences aside in the interest of peace and development.

The conflict escalated further after the Supreme Court issued a ruling in favor of the lawmakers, which in turn fueled renewed tensions, including threats of impeachment against the governor.

In March, the crisis reached a critical point, prompting President Tinubu to step in by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers. The president suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected Assembly members, while appointing Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as interim administrator.

Following the latest peace talks, Wike told reporters that the feud had officially come to an end.

“We have all agreed to work together with the governor, and the governor also agreed to work together with all of us.

“We are members of the same political family. Yes, just like humans, you have a disagreement, and then you also have time to also settle your disagreement and that has been finally concluded today. We have come to report to Mr. President, that is what we have agreed. So for me, everything is over. There’s no more acrimony,” Wike said.

Governor Fubara echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the need for unity and stability in the state.

“What we need for the progress of Rivers state is peace and by the special grace of God, tonight, with the help of the president and the agreement with leaders of the state, peace has returned.

“We’ll do everything within our power to make sure that we sustain it this time around,” he said.