FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has signaled a willingness to forgive Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, but only if the governor sincerely seeks reconciliation. Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike, who is also the immediate past governor of Rivers State, stated that he would be open to mending their fractured relationship if approached with genuine remorse. He emphasized that forgiveness requires sincerity and that no such overture has yet been made by Fubara. The political feud between the two has deepened over control of the state’s political machinery and resources, leading to significant fallout including the defection of 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to the opposition APC, although these defections were later contested.
Wike revealed that two unnamed governors have attempted to mediate between him and Fubara, with Wike expressing his readiness for peace but insisting that any reconciliation must be authentic. He also supported President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a necessary measure to avert anarchy amid escalating tensions. While Wike admitted he preferred the outright removal of Fubara, he acknowledged the president’s intervention as a stabilizing action for the state.
Despite calls from former militant leader Tompolo for Wike to soften his stance and reconcile with Fubara, Wike’s aides clarified that forgiveness hinges on Fubara acknowledging any wrongdoing and formally seeking pardon a step yet to be taken. Wike’s position remains that his concerns are about governance and the proper management of Rivers State, not personal grievances. The ongoing crisis underscores the fragile political dynamics in Rivers State, with the possibility of reconciliation still dependent on sincere efforts from both parties.
