Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, have commenced peace negotiations in a bid to end their long-standing political standoff, which has shaken the state’s political stability.
The crucial dialogue took place at Wike’s residence in Abuja and was mediated by former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba and current Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun. This marks the first major effort at reconciliation between the two political figures, whose dispute has deeply polarized the political climate in Rivers State.
According to Punch, sources close to the meeting revealed that Governor Fubara offered a heartfelt apology to Wike during the talks. One insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed Fubara went as far as prostrating before Wike—now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory—seeking forgiveness for previous actions perceived as disloyal or confrontational.
The peace process is expected to continue, with another round of meetings reportedly scheduled as both sides work toward a final agreement that could restore calm and governance in the state.
The Fubara-Wike feud, which began as a political disagreement, escalated into a full-blown crisis that has paralyzed government functions in Rivers State for nearly two years. The situation reached a critical point on March 18, 2025, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, citing a breakdown of law and order.
Following the declaration, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed as the sole administrator of Rivers State, effectively suspending democratic governance. The National Assembly ratified the state of emergency on March 20, despite significant public opposition and legal concerns.
In a swift response, eleven governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) filed a case at the Supreme Court, challenging the legality and constitutionality of the federal government’s action.
Reacting to the peace talks, Deputy National Youth Leader of the PDP, Timothy Osadolor, welcomed the development but cautioned Governor Fubara against compromising the state’s interests in exchange for political survival.
“What started as a personal disagreement has morphed into a constitutional crisis with national implications,” Osadolor said in an interview with Punch. “If Fubara’s apology was a gesture rooted in African values and respect for elders, that’s acceptable. But he must not jeopardize the will or welfare of Rivers people.”
Osadolor also condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as disproportionate and legally questionable. He argued that several states with far more severe security issues were not subjected to such drastic measures.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has voiced support for the reconciliation efforts. The party’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, commended both APC leaders and stakeholders for facilitating the talks, emphasizing that the initiative was driven by a commitment to national peace and effective governance—not partisan interests.
“For our leaders to mediate a conflict outside our party ranks demonstrates APC’s genuine concern for Nigeria’s unity and progress,” Ibrahim said. “Stability in Rivers State is vital not just for the region, but for the entire country.”
As the peace process continues, all eyes remain on the next steps to determine whether this reconciliation can restore political order and democratic governance in Rivers State.
