After nearly a year of intense political conflict, former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed a truce with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The reconciliation was reached during a closed-door meeting facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Wike announced that all parties involved had resolved to put their differences aside for the sake of unity and progress in Rivers State.
“We have agreed to work together with the governor, and he has also agreed to work with us. We are one political family,” Wike stated.
He acknowledged that while disagreements are a normal part of political life, it was important to come back to the table for peace. “This issue has been conclusively resolved. We came to brief Mr. President on our agreement. As far as I’m concerned, it’s over.”
Wike also appealed to their supporters and political allies to embrace peace and cooperation. “There’s no need for further hostility. We must all move forward together.”
Governor Fubara, who was also present at the meeting, described the resolution as a divine intervention and a much-needed breakthrough for the state.
“For me, it’s a day to thank God. Peace is essential for the development of Rivers State, and tonight, by God’s grace and with the help of Mr. President and our leaders, peace has returned,” Fubara said.
He assured that his administration is fully committed to maintaining the unity and peace achieved during the meeting. “We will do everything possible to protect and sustain this peace.”
The political rift began shortly after Fubara assumed office in May 2023. By October, tensions escalated as lawmakers loyal to Wike initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor. In response, Fubara ordered the demolition of the State Assembly complex after a mysterious fire incident, relocating legislative sessions to temporary facilities.
Efforts to broker peace led to an initial agreement in December 2023, again mediated by President Tinubu. The deal included a number of key appointments given to Wike’s allies, but the truce fell apart, leading to renewed hostilities.
By March 18, 2025, the crisis reached its peak, prompting President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. The declaration suspended Fubara’s executive powers for six months and installed a sole administrator, retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas to oversee the state.
Now, with a renewed commitment to peace from both leaders, hopes are high that Rivers State can begin to heal and move forward.
