The political panorama of Rivers State, lengthy marred by pressure and uncertainty, is witnessing a promising flip. The continuing reconciliation efforts between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Wike, indicators a hopeful path towards stability, unity, and progress. As these two pivotal figures take tentative steps to fix their rift, there’s rising optimism that Governor Fubara could return from his suspension, speculatively between June and July 2025, heralding a brand new chapter for the state.
First, let me felicitate with Governor Fubara on reaching the numerous milestone of two years in workplace. In his deal with on Could 29, 2025, marking this event, he mirrored, “In the present day marks precisely two years since I took the oath of workplace as your seventh democratically-elected Governor. … Regardless of the turbulence, I’ve remained steadfast and targeted, guided by the oath I took and the solemn promise I made to at all times put Rivers State first.” Regardless of the turbulence that has outlined a lot of his tenure, his peaceable demeanor shines as a beacon of hope. On the Evening of Tributes for the late Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark on Could 11, 2025, on the Royal Home of Grace Church in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara urged restraint, stating, “Among the remarks and actions of my supporters have been pointless and opposite to my private beliefs and rules of pursuing peace within the midst of the political disaster within the State.” He added, “The second requires knowledge, tact,” emphasizing his dedication to calm and reconciliation even within the face of immense challenges. His grace underneath strain is commendable and a testomony to his dedication to the state’s progress.
Equally praiseworthy is Minister Nyesom Wike’s willingness to interact on this reconciliatory course of, as directed by President Tinubu. Wike, a political titan and former governor who performed a monumental function in Fubara’s rise, has proven statesmanship by agreeing to put aside variations for the larger good. His acknowledgment of the necessity for peace, as evidenced by his internet hosting of Fubara alongside governors and statesmen at his residence on April 18, 2025, displays a maturity that Rivers State desperately wants. This gesture, rooted within the President’s name for unity, is a commendable step towards therapeutic the fractures of the previous.
The current closed-door assembly between Governor Fubara and President Tinubu in Lagos on June 3, 2025, is a heart-warming indicator of progress. This engagement, coming amidst behind-the-scenes efforts to revive democracy in Rivers State, underscores a shared dedication to stability. Each Fubara and Wike deserve appreciation for prioritizing the pursuits of Rivers individuals above private or partisan agendas. Reconciliation typically calls for uneasy compromises, but their willingness to work collectively once more for the frequent good speaks volumes about their dedication to the state’s future.
Peace is the cornerstone of growth and democracy. With out it, Rivers State—a significant hub of Nigeria’s oil and fuel manufacturing, infrastructure, and {economic} potential—can’t thrive. The protracted battle between Fubara and Wike, which spiraled from a private rift into legislative chaos, safety threats, and a governance vacuum, threatened to derail progress. Nonetheless, the present trajectory of dialogue and understanding gives hope. A steady Rivers State isn’t just a neighborhood crucial; it’s a nationwide necessity, given the state’s function in connecting the Niger Delta and powering Nigeria’s economic system. As Governor Fubara famous in his anniversary speech, “Your assist has emboldened me to press on and to not retreat, however to work tougher to foster peace, reconciliation & forgiveness. These are important to restoring normalcy & delivering transformational infrastructure, impactful programmes & life-changing providers throughout the State.”
Hypothesis is rife that Governor Fubara could be a part of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a part of this reconciliation course of. If this transfer proves to be a key think about bringing lasting peace and the dividends of democracy to Rivers State, the governor is at liberty to make such a selection. The target should stay the welfare of the great individuals of Rivers State. Political affiliations, whereas important, are secondary to the pressing want for unity, efficient governance, and growth. If crossing celebration traces facilitates stability and progress, it’s a pragmatic step price contemplating. In his anniversary deal with, Fubara affirmed, “We’re at a vital level in our journey, the place troublesome choices have to be made. Be assured that each step we take shall be guided by your greatest pursuits and the enduring good of Rivers State.”
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This strategy aligns with the imaginative and prescient I articulated in two prior articles. In “Want for Calm in Navigating the Rivers Maelstrom,” revealed in The Nation newspaper on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, I referred to as for restraint, belief, and a concentrate on mediation to tug Rivers State again from the brink. Subsequently, in “Political Prodigality and the Path to Peace in Rivers State,” revealed in The Guardian Newspaper on Monday, Could 12, 2025, I reframed the battle as a familial misunderstanding, urging dialogue and humility to revive unity. In the present day, as reconciliation beneficial properties momentum, these pleas for peace and collaboration are bearing fruit.
The street forward isn’t with out challenges, however the indicators are encouraging. The individuals of Rivers State yearn for a return to democratic governance, the place elected officers can serve with out the shadow of battle or administrative overreach. As Fubara and Wike bridge their divide, and with President Tinubu’s guiding hand, allow us to stay hopeful. A peaceable, affluent Rivers State is inside attain—a testomony to the ability of dialogue, compromise, and a shared dedication to the frequent good.
Professor Steve Azaiki OON, sends this peace in from Toronto Canada
