By Acho Marcus Nkire.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed willingness to reconcile with suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara—on the condition that Fubara offers a sincere apology for the political crisis that has engulfed the state.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, Wike stated that he is open to forgiveness but emphasized that peace can only be achieved through genuine efforts at reconciliation.
Tensions between Wike and Fubara began shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023, leading to deep political divisions that eventually splintered the Rivers State House of Assembly into factions. The escalating situation prompted President Bola Tinubu to intervene by suspending Governor Fubara for six months and appointing a sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
As the crisis showed signs of affecting the state’s security landscape, calls for resolution became more urgent.
Wike questioned the sincerity of those claiming to seek peace, stating, “Has anybody approached anybody? I don’t like people who are hypocrites. I have asked her [an unnamed party] to name one elder in Rivers State who has made any concrete effort toward resolving this issue.”
He added, “At the end of the day, if we don’t make progress, we end up back at square one—which makes no sense. The day Mr. President intervened, the lawmakers immediately withdrew the impeachment notice. I’m open to forgiveness if he comes sincerely.”
The development underscores the fragile political climate in Rivers State and the need for constructive dialogue to restore stability and governance.
