Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has asserted that he owes no one an explanation regarding the truce recently established in Rivers State with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike made this declaration during a media chat in Abuja, stating that peace has been restored to his home state.
The political turmoil in Rivers State between Fubara and Wike involved a series of events impacting the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The crisis led President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ekwe Ibas as Administrator. This action followed months of escalating political tensions and a breakdown of governance.
The conflict between Fubara and Wike, his predecessor and political mentor, stemmed from a power struggle over control of the state’s political structures. This dispute resulted in 27 pro-Wike lawmakers initiating impeachment proceedings against Fubara. A prior peace agreement brokered by President Tinubu in 2023 collapsed, leading to renewed hostilities.
In late June 2025, efforts to reconcile Wike and Fubara culminated in a meeting brokered by President Tinubu. After the meeting, Wike stated that both parties had agreed to end the conflict and work together. Fubara confirmed the truce, attributing it to divine intervention and a crucial turning point for Rivers State.
However, sources indicated that Fubara agreed to certain conditions, including completing his term without seeking re-election in 2027 and allowing Wike to nominate local government chairpersons. Some political analysts and supporters of Fubara have viewed the terms of the truce as unfavorable to the governor. Despite concerns, Fubara has defended the reconciliation, emphasizing the need for peace and development in Rivers State. He appealed to his supporters to accept the terms, stating that no price was too big to pay for peace and reconciliation.
