FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly announced the end of his widely publicised political rivalry with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, calling on all stakeholders to respect the reconciliation process and stop questioning the steps taken to restore peace in the state.
Wike made the declaration on Saturday, August 1, 2026, during a media chat in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. He spoke with conviction, urging both his supporters and the governor's loyalists to shift their focus from political feuds to governance and development.
"The State Lost" - Wike Reflects on Cost of Crisis
The former Rivers governor, now serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, acknowledged that mistakes were made by all sides during the protracted conflict. He insisted that the continued questioning of Governor Fubara's decisions in the reconciliation process is counterproductive. According to The Cable, Wike said: "We have made our mistakes. We have realised that it is not in the interest of the state. Therefore, people should encourage this reconciliation and not ask, 'Why did the governor do this?' Those who make such comments do not mean well for Rivers State."
Looking back at the crisis, Wike lamented that the state was the biggest casualty of the political war. He added, as quoted by Vanguard: "You should ask yourself a simple question: during all these fights, who lost? It was the state that lost. So why would anyone want the state to continue to lose?"
Peace Deal Built on Forgiveness and Compromise
Wike described the peace arrangement as one rooted in genuine compromise and unforgiving forgiveness. "When someone has made a sacrifice and said, 'Let bygones be bygones; let's work together,' that gesture should be appreciated. Some of us are not extremists. If I say I forgive you, I forgive you," he said.
His remarks were directed at those who have yet to accept the reality of the reconciliation, particularly sections of the public and political commentators who have openly questioned the speed and manner of the peace process.
Committee to Consolidate Reconciliation Across Rivers
Beyond the verbal commitment, Wike revealed that a committee has been established to consolidate the peace by reaching out to all political stakeholders in Rivers State. He stated: "We have set up a committee to reach out to everybody. The objective is to ensure that everyone is carried along in the effort to build a united and prosperous Rivers State."
The committee is expected to engage traditional rulers, civil society groups, youth leaders, and political party members, ensuring that the reconciliation extends beyond the two principal actors.
The establishment of the committee is seen as a practical step towards healing the deep divisions created by the crisis. It also signals that the reconciliation is not merely a photo opportunity but a sincere effort to rebuild trust and cooperation among the various political groups in the state.
Months of Turbulence and a State of Emergency
The announcement brings to a close a turbulent chapter in Rivers State's political history. The feud between Wike and Fubara had severely disrupted governance, culminating in President Bola Tinubu declaring a six-month state of emergency in the state. That drastic action underscored the depth of the crisis that had engulfed one of Nigeria's most important states.
Observers noted that the reconciliation did not happen in a vacuum. It built momentum after Governor Fubara endorsed the Rainbow Coalition and declared his support for President Tinubu's re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general election. Wike, a prominent political leader, has also openly backed Tinubu, famously declaring: "We know that Tinubu will win; I will support Tinubu in 2027."
2027 Elections and the Politics of Unity
Political analysts believe the rapprochement between Wike and Fubara is not only about Rivers State but also about the broader political calculations for 2027. With both men now aligned with the presidency, a united Rivers State could become a crucial stronghold for Tinubu's re-election campaign.
By closing ranks, Wike and Fubara are likely to reduce the political tension that has often led to violence and social unrest in Rivers State. This unity is essential if the state is to attract investment and improve the quality of life for its people.
Wike's insistence that people should not question the reconciliation suggests that he is keen to avoid any distractions that could destabilise the peace. His language was direct and focused on the future, rather than rehashing old grievances.
Hopes for a New Era of Governance
With the political climate calmer, Wike expressed confidence that Governor Fubara would now be free to concentrate on delivering good governance. He predicted that Rivers residents would witness tangible improvements in the state within the next year, as the government refocuses on infrastructure, health, education, and economic development.
As the reconciliation committee begins its assignment, the people of Rivers State await the fruits of this agreement. The hope is that the peace will hold and that the state, once known for its political turbulence, will now be celebrated for its progress and unity.
