Rivers Crisis: Tinubu Hosts Wike, Fubara for Peace Talks in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday hosted Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to resolve the protracted political crisis rocking the state.
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The closed-door meeting also included members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, including the embattled Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, and other lawmakers who had earlier been suspended amid the tensions in the state.
Sources familiar with the development told WellNaija Tribune that Thursday’s session marks a significant move in the federal government’s bid to broker lasting peace between Governor Fubara and his political rivals within the state’s legislative arm.
It was gathered that Governor Fubara had earlier met separately with the lawmakers, including Speaker Amaewhule, in what sources described as a “fruitful” engagement. However, insiders say a broader reconciliation meeting is expected in the coming days to solidify peace terms between the parties.
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The Rivers political crisis, which escalated in recent months, had drawn national attention and led to President Tinubu’s intervention. Back in March, the President reportedly considered declaring a state of emergency in the state, following heightened tensions and violent confrontations linked to the Assembly’s internal rift and governance disputes.
Observers believe Thursday’s meeting signals a renewed push by the Presidency to enforce stability in the oil-rich state ahead of key national and party events.
While official statements were yet to be issued at press time, sources within the Presidential Villa expressed optimism that a workable political truce is within reach.