The political camp of Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, has challenged suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s assertion that reconciliation efforts to restore democratic governance in the state are at an advanced stage.
Fubara, speaking on Thursday at a meeting with leaders of the Simplified Movement, expressed optimism that peace and reconciliation were underway to restore executive and legislative institutions. He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emergency rule declaration, describing it as a timely intervention that stabilised the state’s political crisis. Fubara also referred to Wike as his “oga” and stated, “There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my oga… We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
However, Wike dismissed these claims during a Monday media briefing, labelling the reported reconciliation as superficial, suggesting Fubara had not demonstrated genuine commitment to peace.
Former Emohua Local Government Chairman, Dr Chidi Lloyd, aligned with Wike’s camp, accusing Fubara of insincerity and evasiveness. Lloyd said, “He is a man who says something and does a different thing… When a man wants to make peace, it will show.”
Lloyd urged Fubara to engage directly with key stakeholders, including the Rivers State House of Assembly and former local government chairmen, many of whom remain aggrieved following prolonged disputes. He emphasised the need for genuine reconciliation, saying, “What kind of peace are you making? You have not met with the state Assembly… The problem was protracted… He needs to meet with these people.”
Lloyd also described Fubara’s situation as akin to a “prisoner of war” who must humble himself to heal the divisions, highlighting the impact of political tensions on lawmakers and families. He advised Fubara to initiate peace by apologising to the Speaker and members of the Assembly, calling for a fresh start.
Regarding Fubara’s confidence that emergency rule would soon end, Lloyd suggested the suspended governor was relying on optimistic insiders. He noted missed return dates and quoted a biblical passage, “Can two walk together except they be agreed?” to stress that reconciliation must be sincere to succeed.
Lloyd concluded with a reference to Ola Rotimi’s The Gods Are Not to Blame, saying, “Until the rotten tooth is pulled out, the mouth will continue to chew with caution,” implying that unresolved issues will continue to hinder lasting peace.