NaijNaira
Rivers State is in the midst of a deepening political crisis. Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike continue to clash. Efforts to reconcile the two have stalled, and no resolution is in sight.
National Assembly’s Peace Initiative
Two weeks ago, the National Assembly proposed forming a peace committee to mediate the ongoing conflict. However, no significant steps have been taken toward reconciliation. According to Daniel’s report, the peace process is still at a standstill.
President Declares State of Emergency
In March, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. He suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all state legislators for six months. Tinubu appointed Vice-Admiral Ibok Ibas (rtd) as Sole Administrator to manage the state during this period.
No Progress on Peace Committee
The National Assembly quickly approved the President’s request. They also recommended creating a committee to mediate the dispute between the factions. However, the committee has yet to take any meaningful action.
Leaders’ Biases Worsen the Crisis
Sources in Port Harcourt believe that some Ijaw and Rivers leaders have worsened the conflict by taking sides. Many leaders who should mediate have instead deepened the divide. This has made it difficult to move forward with any peace talks.
Ijaw Leaders’ Support for Fubara
Many Ijaw leaders openly supported Governor Fubara, distancing themselves from Wike. This biased stance only intensified the divide between the factions. Critics argue that former President Goodluck Jonathan failed to remain neutral, which could have helped ease tensions.
Failure to Lead Peace Talks
“Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who should have led the peace talks at this time, was pushed to side with Governor Fubara in the crisis,” the insider said. The Ijaw National Congress (INC), led by Prof. Benjamin Okaba, also faced backlash for its perceived bias in the matter.
Frustration Over Crisis Management
Jonathan Lokpobiri, President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, expressed frustration over how the crisis was managed. He believes that a more measured approach could have prevented the escalation.
“I can, with all sense of responsibility and conviction, state that if we had applied wisdom in the management of this crisis in Rivers, we would not be where we are today,” Lokpobiri said. He stressed that emotional reactions worsened the situation.
Call for Strategic Leadership
Lokpobiri reiterated his support for Governor Fubara but emphasized the need for strategic thinking in managing political conflicts. “Sometimes wisdom is stronger than the arms we think we have gathered,” he added.
MOSIEND’s Neutral Efforts for Peace
Kennedy Tonjo-West, President of the Movement for Izon Ethnic Nationality Development (MOSIEND), has stayed neutral throughout the crisis. He is now working to initiate peace talks. “We want Rivers to return to a process of reconciliation without any delay,” Tonjo-West said.
Fubara’s Return to Port Harcourt
Governor Fubara has returned to his private residence in Port Harcourt. Meanwhile, many of the suspended lawmakers, particularly those loyal to Wike, are reportedly abroad.
