ABUJA, Nigeria — In a major breakthrough for the political stability of Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara have reportedly reached a fresh “peace deal” following a late-night intervention by President Bola Tinubu.
The “Fatherly” Intervention
The meeting, which took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday night, February 9, 2026, aimed to resolve the year-long crisis that has fractured the Rivers State House of Assembly and led to numerous legal battles.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the session, Wike described the President’s role as “fatherly” and “timely.”
“As a father, he needed to intervene, and he did,” Wike said. “The President acted in the best interest of peace and stability, and we are committed to moving forward for the sake of the people.”
Signs of Reconciliation
While the exact details of the “sharing formula” or political agreements were not released, eyewitnesses observed a rare sign of unity after the meeting. Governor Fubara reportedly accompanied his predecessor, Wike, to his private residence in the Guzape area of Abuja.
Political analysts suggest this gesture is a significant departure from the public hostility that has defined their relationship over the past several months. Sources close to the Governor indicate that he has pledged to refrain from actions that could be perceived as disrespectful to the political leadership that brought him to power.
Reactions from the Public
The news has sparked intense debate on platforms like Nairaland and social media.
- The Optimists: Hope that this deal will finally allow governance to resume in Rivers State without the constant threat of impeachment or legislative shutdowns.
- The Critics: Express skepticism, questioning how many times the President will need to “intervene” and whether this deal will hold for more than a few months.
Background of the Crisis
The Rivers crisis, which began shortly after Fubara took office in 2023, has centered on a power struggle over party control and the influence of the “Godfather” structure in the oil-rich state. The conflict has seen the demolition of the House of Assembly complex and several conflicting court orders that have paralyzed local government administrations.
With the 2027 elections appearing on the horizon, this “Muscat-style” shuttle diplomacy by President Tinubu is seen as a strategic move to secure the political soul of the South-South region.