Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, visited him in Abuja to seek reconciliation over the lingering political crisis in the state.
Wike disclosed during a media chat held on Monday in Abuja.
He said Fubara was accompanied by two governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The visit reportedly came after Fubara met with President Bola Tinubu in London to discuss the deepening political feud.
“Yes, he (Fubara) came with two governors and another person, but unfortunately, the two of them are APC governors. He said he wants peace, and I said I want peace too. But peace requires more than words, you must take steps that prove your intentions,” he said.
The political crisis between Fubara and Wike, his predecessor, escalated in late 2023, culminating in President Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers on March 18.
Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu and members of the State House of Assembly for six months, citing political instability and unrest.
The president appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), former chief of naval staff, as the sole administrator of the state during the period.
Wike claimed that the political tension was a “self-inflicted injury” by Fubara, alleging that the suspended governor ignored early counsel from political allies and mentors.
“When this crisis started, I called him. Seyi Makinde, Ortom, Ikpeazu, and Umahi were there. We told him, ‘Don’t let people push you; don’t forget those who toiled for your success.’ But he didn’t listen,” Wike said.
The FCT minister questioned Fubara’s ability to lead a genuine peace process, highlighting continued attacks from the governor’s camp.
“You must demonstrate peace with actions. Go and meet the Assembly members. Talk to stakeholders. It’s not enough to just say you want peace,” he said.
In a separate development, Fubara spoke publicly during a service of songs in honour of the late elder statesman, Edwin Clark, held in Port Harcourt on Sunday.
There, he stated that he was not desperate to return to being the governor, adding that he now feels more at peace and even looks better since leaving.
“Do you think I’m interested in going back there? My spirit has left that place long ago,” Fubara said. He urged his supporters to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, warning that misguided loyalty could do more harm than good.
“There are some fights you don’t fight. Ask the person if he wants it. Do what I want, not what you want. I know how to solve my problems,” he added.
A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has adjourned to May 26 the hearing of a suit filed by former House of Representatives member, Farah Dagogo.
The suit challenges the constitutionality of President Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara, his deputy and the lawmakers, alongside the imposition of a sole administrator.