In a significant development concerning the political crisis in Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, has announced that the suspended Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, will be reinstated on September 18.
This was after the APC had cleared the Rivers state’s Local government elections by winning 20 out of the 23 local governments, the PDP won seven and many stakeholders have rejected the results.
Wike, who spoke to journalists on the sidelines of a public event in Abuja, stated that the “coast is now clear” for the lifting of the state of emergency that was declared in the oil-rich state following a period of intense political instability and security concerns.
“The issues that led to the necessary intervention in Rivers State have been largely resolved through dialogue and a commitment to peace,” Wike said. “We have reached an understanding, and I can confidently say that Sir Siminalayi Fubara will resume his duties on the 18th of this month. The state of emergency will be lifted to allow for a return to normal democratic governance.”
Background of the Crisis
The political situation in Rivers State escalated dramatically in late 2023 and early 2024. The rift between the former governor and political godfather, Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, led to a series of events including:
· An impeachment attempt against Governor Fubara by members of the State House of Assembly loyal to Wike.
· A bombing of the State House of Assembly complex.
· Mass defections of lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
· Widespread protests and counter-protests, raising fears of widespread civil unrest.
Faced with a complete breakdown of the political order and potential threats to national economic assets in the state, the federal government was compelled to declare a state of emergency. This led to the temporary suspension of the governor and the assembly, with the state being placed under the administration of a special panel.
The Path to Resolution
According to sources close to the matter who spoke to Premium Times and The Cable, the resolution was brokered behind the scenes by influential stakeholders from the Niger Delta region and members of the presidency. The peace talks focused on securing a truce between the factions of Wike and Fubara to ensure stability.
A source cited by The Cable mentioned, “The agreement involves a political settlement that allows Governor Fubara to return and complete his term, while also addressing the concerns of the other faction regarding the composition of the state executive council and the recognition of the lawmakers who defected.”
Mixed Reactions and Next Steps
News of the impending reinstatement has been met with mixed reactions within Rivers State. Supporters of Governor Fubara have celebrated the announcement as a victory for democracy and the mandate of the people.
However, opposition voices and some civil society groups have expressed caution. They are calling for clarity on the terms of the agreement and urging that the reinstatement must be unconditional and followed by genuine reconciliation, not just a political ceasefire.
All eyes will now be on President Bola Tinubu to formally issue the directive to lift the state of emergency, paving the way for Governor Fubara’s return to the Government House in Port Harcourt on September 18.
Sources:
· Official statement from Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister.
- · Background context and timeline of events from reporting by Premium Times, The Cable, and Vanguard Newspapers.
· Analysis from political correspondents familiar with the Rivers State political landscape.
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