Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has announced the resolution of his long-standing political dispute with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following a reconciliation meeting hosted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.
However, speaking to journalists after the meeting held behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa on Thursday night, Wike disclosed that both sides had agreed to put aside their differences and work together in unity.
He emphasized that the reconciliation was complete and final, adding that all parties involved now recognize the importance of peace and cooperation.
“We’ve all agreed to move forward together. The governor has also agreed to work in harmony with everyone. We all belong to one political family,” Wike said.
While acknowledging that the crisis had dragged on for several months, he said the resolution marked the end of hostilities.
“Like in all relationships, there are moments of disagreement, but there must also be room for resolution. That process is now complete, and we’ve formally briefed the President. As far as I’m concerned, the matter is closed,” he stated.
Wike also called on their supporters to embrace the new spirit of peace and solidarity.
“There’s no longer any need for division. Let’s all come together and move the state forward,” he appealed.
Governor Fubara also spoke positively about the outcome of the meeting, describing the agreement as a turning point for Rivers State.
He credited the peaceful resolution to divine intervention and praised the role of President Tinubu in making it possible.
“It’s a day to thank God,” Fubara said. “What Rivers State needs now is lasting peace. With the efforts of the President and our leaders, we are on the path to stability and progress.”
He pledged to uphold the unity achieved during the meeting, stating that his administration would do everything possible to maintain the fragile peace going forward.
The conflict between Wike and Fubara began shortly after Fubara assumed office in May 2023, despite being Wike’s preferred successor.
The situation escalated in October 2023 when lawmakers loyal to Wike initiated impeachment proceedings against Fubara.
In response, the governor ordered the demolition of the state Assembly complex after a suspicious fire, relocating legislative operations to a temporary site.
As tensions escalated, governance in the state suffered. President Tinubu first intervened in December 2023, brokering a peace arrangement in which Fubara conceded several key appointments to allies of Wike. However, the truce later collapsed.
On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Fubara’s powers for six months and appointing retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as the state’s sole administrator, citing worsening security and political instability.
Thursday’s reconciliation meeting now offers a renewed opportunity for healing and political cooperation, raising hopes for lasting peace and effective governance in Rivers State.
Leave a Reply