In a significant political development, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has confirmed a truce with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, while simultaneously putting discussions about the governor’s second term ambitions on ice.
The former Rivers governor, speaking candidly during a Channels Television interview, revealed: “I spoke with the governor yesterday. We have made peace. I wouldn’t have spoken to Fubara if I hadn’t forgiven him. I don’t speak to a man I’ve not forgiven. I am at peace with Governor Fubara.”
The reconciliation comes after weeks of political tension that prompted President Tinubu’s temporary declaration of emergency rule in the state. Wike emphasized that contrary to public perception, Fubara was consulted throughout the crisis, including during the controversial local government elections.
Addressing what he called “professional crisis mongers,” Wike stated: “Some people just love crisis. They go on TV, shout and pontificate, misrepresent facts, and try to confuse the public. We’ve had enough. Enough is enough.”
However, when pressed on whether he would support Fubara’s re-election bid, the minister firmly deferred the conversation: “Let’s not bring up what can cause unnecessary crisis. We still have two years. Let us focus on helping the governor to deliver governance. Rivers people want development, not second term debates.”
Wike defended the timing of the local polls, insisting they followed constitutional provisions under emergency rule. He also denied influencing state cabinet appointments, stating: “I have no candidate. Even if the governor comes to me for advice, I’ll only tell him not to destroy what we’ve built.”
The minister praised President Tinubu’s intervention in facilitating dialogue among Rivers stakeholders, noting that all parties had chosen peace over prolonged conflict.
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