President Tinubu Urges Rule of Law in Rivers Political Crisis, Fubara Seeks Dialogue with Pro-Wike Lawmakers

President Bola Tinubu has called for strict adherence to the rule of law to resolve the political crisis in Rivers State. Speaking during a meeting with leaders from the South-South region under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, President Tinubu urged all stakeholders to prioritize peace and governance.

The President Tinubu emphasized the importance of respecting judicial decisions, noting that democracy thrives on legal interpretations. His remarks follow a Supreme Court judgment reinstating 27 lawmakers loyal to former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. This ruling has reignited tensions between Wike and his successor, Governor Sim Fubara, as calls for Fubara’s resignation or impeachment grow.

Acknowledging concerns raised by PANDEF, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and regional development. “Yes, the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg,” he stated. He urged South-South leaders to counsel Governor Fubara and ensure that Supreme Court rulings are fully implemented.

Political Crisis in Rivers State: President Tinubu’s Stand on the Judiciary

During the meeting, President Tinubu underscored that Nigeria is governed by the rule of law and that all political disputes should be resolved through legal frameworks. He stated that his own presidency was made possible by the judicial process, reinforcing the need for all parties to respect court verdicts.

The President Tinubu warned that continued political instability in Rivers State could hinder economic and infrastructural development. He placed responsibility on regional leaders to foster peace, urging them to intervene both privately and publicly. “Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time,” he told the delegation.

King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and PANDEF Co-Chair, praised President Tinubu’s interventions and called for sustained focus on South-South development. Meanwhile, former Akwa Ibom Governor Victor Attah, who leads PANDEF’s reconciliation committee, stressed that Rivers’ crisis has national security implications and needs urgent resolution.

Fubara Seeks Meeting with Pro-Wike Lawmakers

As part of efforts to de-escalate tensions, Governor Sim Fubara has signaled his willingness to engage the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers. This follows their refusal to honor his previous invitation for a peace meeting at the Rivers State Government House.

Fubara’s invitation, issued through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, sought to address key issues, including securing a suitable legislative venue, discussing the 2025 budget, and settling the lawmakers’ outstanding allowances. However, the lawmakers rejected the invitation, citing improper communication channels.

Lawmakers aligned with Wike openly mocked Fubara’s approach, with Akuku-Toru Constituency 2 representative Lolo Opuende stating, “It is time for us to determine our ‘dey.’” This phrase, referencing a popular local slang, was echoed in celebrations by Wike’s supporters, including former Ikwerre Local Government Chairman, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, who sang and danced in apparent mockery of Fubara.

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment to Supreme Court Ruling

Despite tensions, Governor Fubara has reiterated his commitment to fully implementing the Supreme Court’s verdict. Speaking at the inauguration of new Judges’ Quarters in Port Harcourt, he assured that his administration would abide by legal dictates in the state’s governance.

“It has not been an easy 16 months, but what is important is the interest of our state, which must be above personal interests,” Fubara said. He lamented the financial resources lost due to political disputes, emphasizing that funds could have been better spent on development projects.

His administration’s completion of the Judges’ Quarters underscores its focus on judicial welfare. Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, lauded the governor for prioritizing the judiciary, while Solicitor-General Mrs. Ibiwari Clapton-Ogolo highlighted the significance of the state’s judicial housing scheme.

Pro-Fubara Group Warns Against Impeachment

Amidst growing tensions, a pro-Fubara group, Supreme Council for Sim Worldwide, has cautioned against any attempt to impeach the governor, warning that such actions could lead to unrest.

Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, group leader Esezi Rukani argued that Fubara’s popularity among the masses would make any impeachment attempt politically dangerous. “The governor may not fight them, but those who voted for him will. Simplicity is not stupidity,” Rukani declared.

He also dismissed calls for Fubara’s resignation from some factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC), questioning the basis for such demands. “What crime has he committed? The last time, they wanted to impeach him without explanation. Now they are calling for his resignation,” he added.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Fubara’s administration, emphasizing that his government has delivered key infrastructure projects such as the Port Harcourt Ring Road and the Trans-Kalahari Road. “We are not just defending his first term; we are preparing for his second term,” Rukani stated

The political battle between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, continues to define Rivers State’s political landscape. While President Tinubu has called for adherence to the rule of law, Fubara remains locked in a tense standoff with pro-Wike lawmakers. His attempt at reconciliation has been rebuffed, but signals from his administration suggest he may extend another invitation.

As both factions dig in, the role of regional leaders and the judiciary will be critical in determining the state’s political future. President Tinubu’s appeal for peace and legal compliance underscores the national implications of Rivers’ crisis, making it a key issue in Nigeria’s broader democratic stability.