Rivers Political Turmoil: Fubara Vows Peace Implementation, Denies it’s a Fatal Blow

In his Christmas Broadcast on December 25, 2023, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State affirmed his unwavering commitment to implementing the 8-point presidential peace agreement aimed at resolving the political crisis in the state. Despite facing opposition from various quarters, including individuals and stakeholders who criticized the peace deal initiated by President Bola Tinubu, Governor Fubara expressed his dedication to executing the agreement in a manner that preserves the collective interest of the people and upholds democratic values.

Governor Fubara, acknowledging the dissenting voices, emphasized that the peace accord should not be viewed as a “death sentence.” Instead, he portrayed it as an opportunity to attain much-needed stability in the state. He asserted that both factions involved in the political dispute, namely the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly loyal to the immediate past Governor Nyesom Wike and his own government, have demonstrated goodwill towards implementing the agreement. Notably, the Amaewhule-led Assembly withdrew the purported impeachment notice, and Governor Fubara’s administration released the previously withheld allowance of the State House of Assembly.

Expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his intervention in the political crisis, Governor Fubara commended the President’s efforts, characterizing them as a demonstration of love for Rivers State. Additionally, he extended appreciation to the people for their unwavering support during the tumultuous period. Governor Fubara assured the citizens that his administration would maintain high governance standards and reiterated his commitment to extensive consultations to better serve the state.

In the spirit of Christmas, Governor Fubara encouraged citizens to embrace the virtues espoused by Jesus Christ, including selflessness, genuine love, and true forgiveness. Looking ahead to the new year, 2024, he promised enhanced development with the completion of strategic infrastructure projects, such as a section of the Ring Road Project and the long-abandoned Andoni section of the Ogoni-Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro unity road.

To provide context, the political crisis in Rivers State escalated in recent months, culminating in a rift between Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike. The Rivers State House of Assembly witnessed a split among lawmakers, with 27 supporting Wike and 4 aligning with Governor Fubara. The crisis also led to parallel sittings, an impeachment plot against the governor, and resignations of pro-Wike commissioners in Fubara’s cabinet. The turmoil extended to the demolition of the state House of Assembly complex, which had previously been burnt.

However, a turning point occurred on December 18, when Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike reached a truce after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Villa in Abuja. President Tinubu facilitated a dialogue between the conflicting parties and secured commitments from all sides to adhere to a set of eight resolutions reached during the parley. The signed resolution outlined specific steps expected from the conflicting parties to de-escalate the crisis.