Rivers Reunited: Fubara, Wike Reconcile After Presidential Intervention

After months of political turbulence that threatened the stability of Rivers State, a long-awaited truce has been struck between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Both leaders, once at loggerheads, announced the restoration of peace following a high-level meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Thursday night.

The closed-door meeting, which included other political stakeholders, yielded a collective resolution: to work together for the unity and progress of Rivers State, putting an end to months of acrimony that had deeply divided the state's political landscape.

Wike: “We Have Agreed on Everything”

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Wike expressed profound relief and gratitude. “I want to give God the glory that today, the 26th of June 2025, peace has finally returned to the state,” he said.

Acknowledging that political conflict is not unusual, Wike framed the reconciliation as a necessary evolution in the political process. “Just like humans, you have disagreements, and then you also have a time to settle your disagreements,” he stated. “We have all agreed on everything, so thank God.”

He urged all parties and supporters to move forward in unity: “There is no more acrimony. For me, it’s over. Let’s all work together.”

Fubara: “Peace Is What We Need for Progress”

Echoing the sentiment, Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized that the return of peace is essential for meaningful development in the state. “What we need for the progress of Rivers State is peace,” he said. “And by the special grace of God, with the help of Mr President and the agreement of the leaders of the state, peace has returned.”

Fubara pledged to guard this newfound stability, signaling a shift from conflict to cooperation in the oil-rich state known for its strategic importance and complex political dynamics.

The Bigger Picture: Tinubu’s Mediation Pays Off

President Tinubu's role as mediator in this long-running feud marks a notable political win for the presidency, showcasing his administration’s effort to broker unity within Nigeria’s fractious political elite. The Rivers crisis had drawn national attention due to its implications for governance, party cohesion, and upcoming elections. Tinubu’s success in reconciling the two key political figures could ripple into other party disputes across the country.

This reconciliation ends a tense chapter in Rivers State politics, which had been marred by power struggles, divided loyalties, and administrative gridlock. With both camps now committed to cooperation, expectations are high that governance will regain momentum and the state's development priorities will be realigned.