The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have begun a quiet but meaningful attempt to settle their differences following months of political tension.
The meeting, which reportedly took place at Wike’s private residence in Abuja, was arranged with the help of former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba and the current Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
A trusted source familiar with the meeting revealed that both men spoke at length in an effort to clear the air and rebuild what was once a strong political bond.
Fubara, accompanied by the two Ogun leaders, reportedly made a visible show of respect by prostrating before Wike and offering a heartfelt apology. According to the source, this moment was a significant step toward peace.
Rivers State has been gripped by political instability for nearly two years, with the fallout between Fubara and his predecessor-turned-rival Wike at the center. Their disagreement, once seen as a personal clash, has now spilled into national concern.
In March, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the rising political crisis. This led to the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s sole administrator—a decision approved by the National Assembly on March 20, despite widespread criticism.
Many political figures have since weighed in. The Deputy National Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, Timothy Osadolor, noted that while peace is welcome, the interest of Rivers State must not be sacrificed.
“The issue began as a personal dispute but escalated into a national matter, involving constitutional overreach,” Osadolor said. “If Fubara’s apology was out of respect for African tradition, that’s fine. But he must not sacrifice the interests of Rivers State for his own position.”
Osadolor also questioned the necessity of the state of emergency, pointing out that several other states with worse security situations were not subjected to similar treatment. He labeled Tinubu’s move as an overreach and possibly politically motivated.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress praised the efforts of its leaders in mediating the dispute. APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, noted that the party’s role in facilitating dialogue was rooted in a desire for peace, not political gain.
“For APC leaders to broker peace, it shows our commitment to unity and good governance,” he said. “Our party understands the importance of peace in governance and aims to promote peaceful coexistence, regardless of the individuals involved.”
