The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared an end to the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, affirming that peace has been restored following his reconciliation with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Speaking during a media chat monitored in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike said he owes no explanations to critics questioning the nature of the agreement with Fubara, emphasizing that what matters is the stability of Rivers State.
“Some people were feeding fat on the crisis. Now that peace has returned, they are unhappy. I don’t owe anybody an explanation. What matters is that the state is moving forward,” Wike said.
Describing the situation as politically motivated, he accused certain individuals of exploiting the conflict for personal gain, likening the crisis to an “oil well” that had enriched opportunists. He insisted that his reconciliation with Fubara was driven by a commitment to peace and the long-term interest of the state.
Wike also reiterated his position within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that he would not be pressured to leave the party. “I don’t run from fights,” he said firmly, responding to speculation about a possible defection.
Meanwhile, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum has urged President Bola Tinubu to fully restore democratic governance in the state. The Forum described the current situation as a “de facto state of emergency” and called for the reinstatement of all suspended democratic institutions.
In a statement signed by its acting chairman and former Deputy Governor, Dr. Gabriel Toby, the Forum welcomed the reconciliation between Wike and Fubara, crediting President Tinubu for facilitating the peace process.
“We commend the recent maturity and courage shown by both men in embracing peace. Though our earlier calls for dialogue were ignored, we thank Mr. President for stepping in as a father figure,” the statement read.
The Forum acknowledged that the crisis which involved both executive and legislative arms had significantly damaged the state’s unity and image. It urged the Federal Government to take steps to end any lingering emergency conditions and restore full democratic order.
“We watched in pain as our state was dragged through tension and division. But now that reconciliation is in motion, we urge Mr. President to lift the emergency rule. Let democratic governance return fully, and let the will of the people be respected,” the group stated.
While the specific terms of the truce remain undisclosed, the Forum expressed hope that the resolution would be consistent with the 1999 Constitution and uphold the principles of the rule of law.
Calling on all political actors to put the interest of the state first, the Forum emphasized that true reconciliation goes beyond ending a feud it involves rebuilding trust and committing to collective development.
“Let Rivers rise again in pride and purpose. Our strength lies in our unity, shared heritage, and common destiny,” the statement concluded.
