Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on his supporters to embrace a new peace accord between him and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing it as a necessary but difficult step toward ending the protracted political crisis in the state.
Speaking in Port Harcourt on Saturday during a gathering of his loyalists, popularly known as the Simplified Family, Fubara acknowledged that the journey so far had been marked by intense struggles but insisted that the time had come to prioritize reconciliation over conflict.
“We have fought,” the governor said. “In my assessment, and in the eyes of any sincere observer of this struggle, we have done what needed to be done. The only solution now is peace. I’ve always said there’s no price too high for peace. I meant it then, and I still stand by it.”
Fubara’s remarks come just days after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu and Minister Wike at the State House in Abuja — part of renewed efforts by the presidency to resolve the political impasse threatening governance and stability in Rivers State.
Addressing concerns among his followers over his decision to reconcile with Wike, Fubara emphasized that peace was not a sign of weakness but a strategic step toward ensuring the state’s progress. He also acknowledged Wike’s political contributions, stating:
“Nobody can erase the role Wike played or the risks he took. Yes, we had our differences. But if now is the time to settle, then that is the right thing to do.”
He further assured his supporters of his continued loyalty and commitment:
“I will not abandon you. This is the time for me to show that I truly care. Whatever sacrifice is needed to ensure peace, we must be prepared to make it. It won’t be easy, but it is necessary.”
While urging calm and unity, Fubara admitted that the reconciliation process might come with personal and political costs but insisted it was the only viable path forward:
“Without genuine reconciliation, we cannot move forward. Not even the President can fix Rivers unless we fix it ourselves.”
The governor’s remarks signal a major shift in the political landscape of Rivers State, where tensions between him and Wike have fueled months of uncertainty and division within the ruling party and governance structures.
