Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has appealed to his supporters to accept the peace agreement reached between him and his predecessor, Chief Nyesom Wike, describing the conditions as “heavy and bitter,” but necessary for lasting peace and the development of the state.
Speaking during a meeting with his loyalists in Port Harcourt on Saturday, June 29, 2025, Governor Fubara said the deal followed a series of meetings, including one mediated by President Bola Tinubu, who urged both leaders to reconcile their differences.
“After the meeting we had before May 29, we’ve had a series of engagements. One of the most significant was with Mr. President, who clearly said, ‘I want you and your oga to settle’,” Fubara revealed.
Acknowledging the role Wike played in his political rise, Fubara noted that despite their past disagreements, the contributions of the former governor cannot be dismissed.
“Yes, we might have our differences, but nobody here will say he doesn’t know the role the man played. Nobody can wish away the risk he took. And if today there’s a need for us to settle, anyone who genuinely believes in me should understand that it’s the right thing to do.”
The governor admitted that the reconciliation involved painful compromises, but emphasized that true peace can only come when both principal actors — himself and Wike — come to mutual understanding.
“I’ve met with him and we have spoken. You can’t take away the fact that he’s also hurt; he’s a human being. I also have my own share of pains. If he feels that, for the pains he has gone through, these are the things he wants — as long as it’s not my life — I will give it to him so we can have peace.”
Fubara assured his supporters that he would not abandon them despite the concessions, saying their integration into a “bigger political family” was part of the reconciliation effort.
“This is the time for me to prove that I care for you. I make my commitment here that whichever way it goes, I will not abandon anybody,” he stated.
He also called for understanding and readiness to make sacrifices, stressing that genuine peace is necessary for Rivers State to move forward and resume stalled development projects.
“There are too many abandoned projects due to this crisis. We cannot make progress in an atmosphere of conflict,” he lamented.
Quoting a proverb from his community, Fubara likened the situation to the native tilapia fish, known as Atabala, saying: “If you want to grow up to the size of the elder fish, you must hide your head in the mud.” He urged his supporters to be strategic, patient, and united.
“This is the time for us to show true loyalty. If you say you’re with me and you believe in me, then stand with me now. We have done our best, and what is needed now is peace — no matter how heavy or bitter.”
Governor Fubara concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the development of Rivers State and pledged that everyone who stood by him will be carried along as the new political alignment unfolds.
