Omotayo Adigun
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and immediate past Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has stated his condition for potentially forgiving his estranged political godson and successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, amidst the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Speaking at a media parley in Abuja on Friday, April 18, 2025, Wike indicated he would forgive Fubara only if the governor genuinely seeks forgiveness.
When explicitly asked if he would forgive Fubara upon request, Wike replied affirmatively, adding the qualifier, “Sincerely.”
His comments come as the relationship between the two political figures continues to deteriorate, stemming from a power struggle over the state’s political structure and resources. This rift has significantly impacted the state, contributing to the defection of 27 state House of Assembly members to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the interview, Wike disclosed that two unnamed state governors had previously approached him in an attempt to mediate the feud.
“These two governors came to me and I said, ‘look, I am here for peace. What does he want?’,” Wike recounted, stating he told them he was resolved to make peace but emphasized that any reconciliation effort “must be in sincerity.”
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He also referred to President Bola Tinubu’s earlier intervention as having been the “best opportunity” for resolution.
Addressing the federal government’s role, Wike expressed support for President Tinubu’s actions regarding the state. According to the provided text, Wike backed the President’s (implied) declaration of a state of emergency and the subsequent appointment of a sole administrator following Governor Fubara’s suspension, viewing it as a necessary step to prevent anarchy, even though his personal preference was different.
“As a politician, I am not happy with the declaration of Emergency Rule in Rivers state. I wanted the outright removal of the governor. But for the interest of the state, the president did the right thing to prevent anarchy in the state,” Wike stated.
He further added, “The matter is in court but people must say the truth… As a politician, my business is not to make him comfortable…”