Fubara explains his reconciliation with Wike: “Heavy but necessary”

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has described his recent reconciliation with his predecessor and political adversary, Nyesom Wike, as a “heavy but necessary” step aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state. The statement came shortly after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, where both parties agreed to cease hostilities and work towards genuine peace.

Fubara, who addressed journalists after the closed-door meeting at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, acknowledged the emotional and political weight of reconciling with Wike but stressed that it was the right move in the interest of Rivers people. “It is a heavy sacrifice, but it’s necessary. Peace must reign. Our people must not suffer because of political differences,” he said.

The rift between Fubara and Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), had escalated since late 2023, causing political instability in the state. The crisis saw the resignation of pro-Wike commissioners, tensions within the State House of Assembly, and public confrontations between both camps. President Tinubu had earlier intervened with a peace pact in December 2023, which temporarily calmed tensions before fresh disputes reignited in early 2024.

Efforts to revive the peace process were renewed in May when former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba and current Governor Dapo Abiodun mediated fresh talks between the two men. Their interventions laid the groundwork for the most recent reconciliation, which was again facilitated by President Tinubu. This time, both parties reportedly agreed to a more inclusive, long-term resolution plan.

While Fubara appears optimistic, not all observers are convinced. Prominent human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju expressed skepticism, warning that Wike has a track record of reneging on political agreements. He cautioned Fubara not to drop his guard, describing the reconciliation as potentially deceptive.

Nonetheless, many in Rivers State have welcomed the development. Political analysts, civil society groups, and residents see the truce as a vital move to revive governance, boost investor confidence, and redirect focus to critical developmental issues in the state.

As the political dust begins to settle, all eyes are now on how both men will honour the new understanding and whether the peace will be sustained beyond public declarations.