Rivers Crisis: Wike Optimistic About Resolution After Peace Truce with Tinubu

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong optimism that the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State is nearing a resolution following what he termed a decisive intervention by President Bola Tinubu.

Wike made his remarks to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, shortly after inspecting various ongoing projects in the FCT. He highlighted the president’s role as a unifying national figure, emphasising that Tinubu’s leadership was crucial in alleviating tensions between the executive and legislative branches of government in Rivers State.

“I believe that by the grace of God, this will be the last time the president will be troubled by this issue, and that this will be the last time the people of Rivers will have to endure such discord,” Wike stated.

Emphasising the significance of presidential intervention, Wike described Tinubu’s counsel as both authoritative and binding for all parties involved. “The president is the father of the nation, and when a father speaks, his children must listen and act appropriately to ensure peace and progress,” he asserted.

Addressing the expectations that have arisen from the truce, Wike expressed confidence that both the Rivers State House of Assembly and Governor Siminalayi Fubara would act responsibly in accordance with the agreement reached. “The House of Assembly will do what they are supposed to do, and I am confident that the governor will carry out his responsibilities to ensure this peace is sustainable,” he said.

Wike further remarked that stability and progress in Rivers State must now take precedence over political disagreements. “The most important thing is for Rivers State to move forward, and we are grateful to Mr President for his tireless commitment to reaching this understanding.”

The crisis had escalated after the Rivers State House of Assembly, seen as loyal to Wike, initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor. In a bid to broker peace, President Tinubu summoned both Wike and Fubara to the Presidential Villa on Monday, where he personally mediated the dispute.