In a milestone moment for Rivers State, long-standing rivals Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike have declared an end to the bitter political feud that had divided their administration. The breakthrough came following a high-level truce meeting convened by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on the evening of June 26.
Nigeria’s presidency confirmed that the closed-door meeting, which included Governor Fubara, Minister Wike, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, and other key stakeholders, resulted in a renewed commitment to collaboration and stability.
Wike, speaking with journalists after the meeting, expressed heartfelt relief and gratitude, saying, “I want to give God the glory that today is the 26th of June 2025, that peace has finally returned to the state. We all agreed to work together with the governor… We are members of the same political family.” He emphasized that political disagreements are natural but stressed that the resolution marks a fresh chapter for governance in Rivers .
Governor Fubara echoed this sentiment, describing the end of hostilities as vital to the state’s future. “For me, it’s very important that this day has come to be. What we need for the progress of Rivers State is peace, and by the special grace of God this night, with the help of Mr President… peace has returned to Rivers State,” he affirmed .
President Tinubu’s intervention comes after a prolonged and volatile crisis that began in late 2023, marked by a split within the Rivers State House of Assembly, impeachment threats, and even a declaration of a state of emergency in March 2025. That action resulted in the suspension of Fubara and the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibok‑Ete Ibas as sole administrator.
While details of the agreement remain under wraps, sources indicate it calls for the withdrawal of court cases and legislative probes, reinstatement of cooperative governance, and a unified effort to deliver development for Rivers State .
The truce brings a collective sigh of relief to citizens and businesses alike who have been closely watching the standoff. As Fubara and Wike step back into dialogue, President Tinubu urged all parties to prioritize the welfare of Rivers residents over personal or political ambition.
This moment stands as a turning point in Rivers politics: rivals are now allies in governance, guided by presidential counsel. As the agreement takes hold, all eyes will be on Rivers State, hoping this peace endures and translates into real progress for its people.
