Wike Ends Long Rift With Fubara, Says “I Have Forgiven

According to Ireporter Online, Wike said the political crisis between both camps caused significant setbacks for Rivers State, stressing that the state and its people suffered the greatest consequences from the disagreement.

Speaking during a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Sunday, the former Rivers State governor confirmed that he and Governor Fubara had resolved their differences and were now working together for the interest of the state.

Wike stated that peace and unity remained the priority, urging residents and political actors to support the reconciliation process rather than continue revisiting past disagreements.

The FCT minister acknowledged that mistakes were made during the conflict, but said both sides had realised that the prolonged dispute was not beneficial to Rivers State.

He stressed that the focus should now shift toward rebuilding trust, promoting development and ensuring stability across the state.

Wike noted that political disagreements should not be allowed to continue at the expense of the people, adding that the major question was who suffered the consequences during the period of tension.

The former governor, who served from 2015 to 2023 and played a key role in Fubara’s emergence as his successor, said one of the major issues in their relationship was the governor’s attempt to build an independent political structure shortly after assuming office.

Their disagreement later developed into a major political crisis that divided Rivers’ political landscape, with lawmakers loyal to Wike making several attempts to initiate impeachment proceedings against the governor before President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state.

The two sides eventually moved toward reconciliation following a political agreement and Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike said the peace process was achieved through compromise, sacrifice and a willingness to forgive, adding that genuine reconciliation should be appreciated.

He disclosed that a committee had been established to engage political stakeholders and promote unity among different groups in Rivers State.

The former governor also described the Rainbow Coalition as the strongest political platform in the state, arguing that successful governance and electoral victories require cooperation among different interests.

Wike urged politicians to prioritise the development of Rivers State above party affiliations, saying the future of the state should remain the collective responsibility of all stakeholders.

He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, describing the administration as beneficial to Rivers State and Nigeria.

Wike expressed optimism that the restored peace would allow Governor Fubara to focus fully on governance, adding that improved stability would lead to greater development in the state.

He maintained that unity would prevent individuals seeking to exploit political divisions from causing further instability, calling on Rivers residents to work together for the progress and prosperity of the state.