Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has stated that no sacrifice is too great to secure the peace, stability, and progress of the state, including reconciling with his predecessor and political rival, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Addressing a crowd of supporters in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Fubara reaffirmed that his recent decisions, particularly the political truce with Wike, were made in the interest of the people of Rivers State. He acknowledged that the reconciliation had caused disappointment among his loyalists but maintained that his actions were guided by a broader goal of long-term peace and development.
Fubara admitted that the political realignment has been difficult for many of his supporters, especially those who remained steadfast during the state’s recent political turbulence. However, he emphasized that moments of crisis often demand difficult choices and compromise from leaders.
He clarified that the reconciliation process was not done in isolation. According to the governor, he engaged in extensive consultations with trusted allies and political stakeholders before reaching an agreement. These consultations, he said, helped ensure that the final decision reflected a collective interest rather than personal preference.
Fubara expressed regret over the disruption caused by the political conflict, noting that several development projects had stalled due to the instability. He voiced hope that the renewed political understanding with Wike would refocus the state government’s attention on delivering infrastructure and other services.
Reflecting on his political journey, Fubara acknowledged Wike’s critical role in his rise to the governorship. He noted that their political history cannot be erased, regardless of current or future differences. The governor said that mutual respect and recognition of shared past efforts are essential in building a stable future for the state.
Addressing the dissatisfaction from his support base, Fubara urged them to remain loyal and confident in his leadership. He reminded them that not all political gains are immediate, and that lasting peace and development often require delayed gratification and collective patience.
Fubara also revealed that the reconciliation had the backing of President Bola Tinubu. According to him, the President personally intervened in the dispute and directed both him and Wike to settle their differences for the greater good of Rivers State. The governor said he responded to the President’s call because national and state interests must come before political rivalry.
As he appealed for unity, Fubara asked his supporters to embrace peace and commit to the recovery and advancement of the state. He said that sustained conflict only serves to delay progress and harm ordinary citizens who rely on government services and infrastructure.
In his remarks, Fubara reiterated his commitment to upholding the will of the people and ensuring that Rivers State remains focused on growth and development. He assured the public that the political agreement will not weaken his resolve to serve the state with integrity and transparency.
The governor ended his address by calling for calm and reconciliation among all political factions in the state. He said Rivers State must move beyond division and embrace a common vision that prioritizes development, peace, and the welfare of its residents.
The reconciliation comes after months of political infighting between Fubara and Wike, which had triggered uncertainty in the state’s governance and threatened to stall development initiatives. As political tension eases, attention is expected to shift back to implementing key projects and strengthening public institutions in Rivers State.
