From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday night hosted a crucial reconciliation meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, bringing together key figures involved in the political crisis in Rivers State.
The closed-door session, according to presidential media sources, included suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara; Minister of Federal Capital Territory and former governor of the state, Nyesom Wike; suspended Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule; and other state legislators.
Speaking to State House Correspondents after the meeting, Wike expressed optimism about the renewed spirit of cooperation. He emphasised the shared political bond among the leaders.
“We have all agreed to work together with the governor, and the governor has also agreed to work with all of us. We are members of the same political family,” Wike said.
He acknowledged that disagreements are natural but stressed that the time to settle differences has arrived.
“That has been finally concluded today, and we have come to report to Mr. President what we have agreed. For me, everything is over. I encourage everyone who believes in working with us to join hands. There is no more acrimony, nothing left to say.”
Fubara, who also spoke with gratitude and hope, said: “For me, it is a day to thank Almighty God. It is very important that this day has come.
“What we need for the progress of Rivers State is peace, and by the special grace of God, tonight, with the help of Mr. President and the agreement of the state’s leaders, peace has returned to Rivers State. We will do everything within our power to sustain it this time around.”
The political turmoil in Rivers State has been escalating since late 2023, stemming from a fierce power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, before President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in the state on March 18, 2025. The declaration led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the State House of Assembly.