In a significant political breakthrough, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday night brokered a peace deal between the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The high-level reconciliation meeting was held behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The long-standing political rift between the two Rivers-born politicians had escalated tensions within the state, culminating in a state of emergency declared by President Tinubu in March 2025.

That move suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly—sparking national and international concern over democratic stability in the region.Wednesday’s meeting was attended by key political stakeholders, including Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, as well as several lawmakers loyal to both camps.

A presidency source described the meeting as “constructive, conciliatory, and solution-driven.” According to reports, both Fubara and Wike agreed to set aside personal and political grievances in the interest of peace, stability, and the development of Rivers State.

The presidency is expected to review the six-month emergency rule currently in place, with insiders hinting that a lift of the suspension on the state government may soon follow.This marks the first public sign of reconciliation between the former allies since their fallout shortly after the 2023 general elections.

Wike, Fubara’s political godfather and predecessor as governor, had played a pivotal role in Fubara’s rise to power but later became embroiled in a bitter feud with him over control of the state’s political structure.

President Tinubu, in a brief statement after the meeting, urged all parties to prioritize the interest of the Nigerian people over political ambition, stressing that “leadership must be about service and sacrifice.”The nation now watches closely as Rivers State steps toward political normalcy and reconciliation, following months of division and tension.

By Erewunmi Peace