Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, recently visited him in Abuja to seek reconciliation amid the ongoing political crisis in the state. The meeting, which took place at Wike’s private residence, saw Fubara accompanied by two governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress and an elder statesman, despite Fubara being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party.
Wike revealed during a media parley on Monday that while Fubara expressed his desire for peace, he questioned the sincerity and capacity of the suspended governor to broker genuine reconciliation. “I told him I don’t think you really have the capacity to make this peace,” Wike stated, emphasizing that peace requires more than just words-it must be demonstrated through actions and engagement with key stakeholders, including the State Assembly and party leaders.
The visit is seen as a significant move toward de-escalating the political standoff that has gripped Rivers State since late 2023, when a rift between Wike and Fubara erupted shortly after Fubara assumed office. The crisis culminated in President Bola Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in March, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and the entire State Assembly for six months, and appointing a sole administrator to manage state affairs.
Wike criticized Fubara for allowing his supporters to organize protests and make inflammatory statements on television, arguing that such actions undermine efforts at reconciliation. He advised Fubara to reach out to other stakeholders and demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace through his conduct and decisions.
The reconciliation meeting followed Fubara’s earlier discussions with President Tinubu in London, as efforts continue to resolve the protracted crisis and restore stability in Rivers State.
While no formal resolutions have been announced following the meeting, Wike’s public confirmation signals a potential opening for dialogue between the two camps. However, he stressed that Fubara must take concrete steps and engage with all relevant parties to achieve lasting peace in the state.
