In the midst of escalating tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese has offered a glimmer of hope, expressing confidence that the two political heavyweights will mend their fences.
The rift between Governor Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike, once allies turned adversaries, has reached a new crescendo with the resignation of five pro-Wike commissioners from Fubara’s cabinet.
However, Bishop Kukah, renowned for his diplomatic finesse, believes that political adversaries have the capacity to reconcile, a sentiment he shared during a press interaction.
Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Bishop Kukah initially appeared hesitant to delve into the Rivers State political crisis.
However, he eventually offered insights into the situation, highlighting the tendency for ordinary citizens to amplify political disputes.
“We ordinary people cry more than the bereaved. The important thing is politicians will fix their problems,” remarked Bishop Kukah, emphasizing the resilience of political actors in resolving their conflicts.
With a deep-seated connection to Rivers State, Bishop Kukah expressed his hope for a swift resolution to the discord, underscoring the state’s significance within the Nigerian landscape.
“Rivers State is a place that is very dear to me because I have been associated with them for a very long period of time,” he shared, invoking a sense of optimism for reconciliation.
Bishop Kukah’s visit to the State House wasn’t solely focused on political matters. He elucidated that his primary agenda was to discuss an invitation extended to President Tinubu for an upcoming conference organized by the Kukah Centre, aimed at fostering national cohesion.
“We came to discuss with the President an invitation to have a conference we had earlier extended, which we renewed. We would like him to be in attendance. It is addressing the theme of national cohesion,”
Bishop Kukah elaborated, highlighting the importance of unity and collective dialogue in navigating Nigeria’s diverse socio-political landscape.
As political tensions simmer in Rivers State, Bishop Kukah’s message of optimism and reconciliation offers a ray of hope amidst the storm, echoing the resilience and adaptability of Nigeria’s political landscape.