The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has opened up on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, confirming that embattled Governor Siminalayi Fubara recently visited him to seek reconciliation.
However, Wike maintained that the crisis was “self-inflicted” and could have been avoided if Fubara had listened to earlier warnings.
Fubara’s visit came after a recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu in London, which was held shortly after the president declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2024.
The emergency order resulted in the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state’s House of Assembly.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed to oversee the administration of the state during this period.
Speaking during a media interview on Monday, Wike confirmed that Fubara was accompanied by two governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“Yes, he came with two governors, and unfortunately, the two of them are APC governors. He said he wants peace, and I said I want peace too,” Wike said.
While expressing his support for reconciliation, Wike stressed that peace requires more than just talk.
“There are steps. You people think this is about saying ‘I want peace’ and then walking away. What that means is that there’s an open window for you. Take the necessary steps to show you want peace,” he stated.
Wike recalled that Fubara had been cautioned from the start not to allow political influences to mislead him. He pointed out that he and other prominent leaders had warned him early enough.
“When this thing started, I called him. Seyi Makinde, Ortom, Ikpeazu, and Umahi were there. We sat him down and said, ‘This is not good for you. God has given it to you; don’t allow people to push you. You’re a governor, we know,’” Wike said.
He described the situation as avoidable and blamed it on poor decision-making and external influence.
“This is a self-inflicted injury. He doesn’t need it,” Wike insisted.
Wike also highlighted the negative impact of the crisis on governance in the state, especially with the suspension of lawmakers and appointment of an administrator.
He warned that the problems would persist if not properly resolved.
“I told him, go this way, and you will not have a problem. People came and said, ‘Don’t mind him; assert yourself as governor.’
“They declared a state of emergency. He who wears the shoe knows where it pinches him. Who suffers? Assuming the state of emergency is lifted, does that mean the crisis is over?
“The Assembly will still be the same. The crisis will still be there. They won’t pass the budget or get federal allocation.”
He further questioned Fubara’s ability to lead a meaningful peace process, citing the continued attacks from the governor’s supporters.
“I told him, I don’t think you have the capacity to make peace. Your people are demonstrating every day, going on television to insult people,” Wike said.
“Have you met the Assembly members? There are leaders you should meet. It’s not enough to say, ‘I want peace.’ You must show by conduct and action that you truly want it.”
