Amid ongoing political tension in Rivers State, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed a recent visit by suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. According to Wike, Fubara was accompanied by two All Progressives Congress (APC) governors and an elder statesman in what appeared to be a reconciliatory move.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike explained that he remains committed to President Bola Tinubu’s repeated calls for peace in the state, but emphasized that actions must align with intentions.
“The President has called for peace severally, and I cannot say ‘I don’t want peace.’ Yes, he (Fubara) came with two APC governors and one elder. He says he wants peace — that’s fine. I also want peace,” Wike stated.
The rift between Wike and Fubara has triggered a prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, culminating in President Tinubu’s March 2025 suspension of Fubara, his deputy Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the entire House of Assembly. A retired naval officer, Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as sole administrator to oversee the state for six months.
While acknowledging Fubara’s attempt at dialogue, Wike insisted that true reconciliation must go beyond gestures and be backed by meaningful action.
“If you are making peace, your supporters shouldn’t be protesting or going on TV to insult people. Peace must be demonstrated through conduct,” he said.
Wike also suggested that Fubara was misled by some political actors who have since abandoned him.
“Governors came pushing him. Where are they now? Fubara is a young man. I warned him early on to tread carefully to avoid crisis,” Wike added.
As the political standoff continues, it remains to be seen whether both sides will commit fully to a negotiated resolution.
