The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara approached him for reconciliation in company of two governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike confirmed that Fubara, who was suspended following political tensions in Rivers State, visited him in a bid to resolve their ongoing rift.
“This is a self-inflicted injury,” Wike said. “Yes, he came with two governors—unfortunately, APC governors—and said he wanted peace. I also want peace, but he must take concrete steps to show sincerity.”
The conflict between the former Rivers governor and his successor began shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023.
It escalated to the point where President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state and temporarily suspended Fubara, appointing a Sole Administrator in his place.
Wike also denied any crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers, stating, “There’s no issue with the PDP in my state. Government is not the party, but it can work with the party.”
Addressing recent remarks made by economist Atedo Peterside, who reportedly referred to some of Fubara’s appointees as “riff-raffs”—Wike said the comment was “extreme and disrespectful,” especially considering that some of the appointees are PhD holders.
He questioned Peterside’s role in Fubara’s rise to power and accused him of contributing to the governor’s current challenges.
Wike also recalled urging the late Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Bank, to invest in Rivers State.
According to him, Wigwe later agreed and committed to establishing a world-class university in the state.
Wike concluded by emphasising his openness to peace but insisted that Governor Fubara must show genuine commitment.
