Wike and Governor Fubara soften their rivalry after President Tinubu’s “final” mediation, signaling possible end to Rivers political crisis
Wike, Fubara Signal Peace as Tinubu Brokers ‘Final’ Truce in Rivers Political Rift
Political tensions in Rivers State appeared to ease on Tuesday as former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, publicly softened their long-running rivalry following what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described as a “final” intervention.
The latest reconciliation effort came after both political heavyweights met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Sunday — a move presidency sources described as symbolic and strategic. Observers noted that both men reportedly left the Villa together in the same vehicle, signaling a thaw in relations.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja after inspecting ongoing road projects in Life Camp and Karsana, Wike expressed optimism that the President’s intervention would permanently end the lingering political crisis.
“I believe, by the grace of God, this will be the last time,” Wike said.
“I have told the Assembly to obey Mr President, which I know they will not hesitate to do. I also believe that this is the final time we will hear this kind of discourse.”
He acknowledged Tinubu’s role as a mediator and father figure in the dispute.
“All I can tell you is that Mr President has been very kind to the people of the state. If there seems to be a problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father, he really has to intervene,” Wike stated.
The FCT Minister emphasized that while presidential intervention was necessary, it should not become a recurring feature of Rivers politics.
“I remember this is the second time Mr President has intervened. I believe, by the grace of God, this will be the last time,” he reiterated.
In what many analysts see as a significant tone shift, Governor Fubara also spoke glowingly of his predecessor during an inspection of the over 50-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project — one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the state.
“This project is very important, considering the person who conceived it, My Oga, the honourable minister,” Fubara said.
“He had a very big vision. He believed that if I achieved this project in record time, people would be happy with me.”
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to completing the project by October, noting its strategic importance to Rivers’ long-term urban and economic development.
“Notwithstanding whatever is happening, it is also my wish and my struggle to ensure that that wish comes through. So you can understand the importance of this project to us and to everyone who means well to our dear state,” he said.
The Ring Road project, cutting across five local government areas, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion within Port Harcourt and adjoining communities.
Fubara revealed that the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, had assured the government of timely delivery provided funding remains steady.
“If you could remember, the project was supposed to be for about 36 months, and we felt we’re already close to that 36 months. We need to really confirm the level of progress that the company has made.
“In the course of our discussion, they are still assuring us that by October, they will deliver the project, and I strongly believe this promise I make to my people will be delivered. What they need is the fund, and from my own end is the push,” Fubara said.
The political rift between Wike and Fubara began shortly after the governor assumed office in May 2023. The fallout triggered deep divisions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, impeachment threats, and months of governance instability.
President Tinubu had previously intervened in December 2023 and again in 2025, when he declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and temporarily suspended executive powers before restoring civil rule six months later.
Tuesday’s public exchanges, however, suggest a possible turning point in the protracted crisis.
While inspecting projects in Abuja, Wike also expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work by contractors.
“We are very impressed with the quality of work. I sincerely thank them and believe that on our part, we will make sure that they get the necessary funding to finish this project on time,” he said.
For Rivers residents, the emerging détente offers hope that attention may finally shift from political brinkmanship to governance and development.
Whether this reconciliation truly marks the end of the Wike–Fubara rivalry remains to be seen — but for now, both camps appear aligned in projecting unity and stability.
And as Wike declared, this intervention, he hopes, will indeed be the last. Read More
