Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged his supporters and members of his political movement, the ‘Simplified Family,’ to embrace the recent peace agreement reached with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, despite the emotional burden it carries.
Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with his loyalists in Port Harcourt, Fubara admitted that while the reconciliation feels “heavy” and “bitter,” it is a critical step toward ensuring political stability and unlocking development in Rivers State.
The governor disclosed that the peace accord was strongly encouraged by President Bola Tinubu, who urged both parties to settle their differences for the greater good.
“In one of our meetings with the President before May 29th, he made it clear to me, saying, ‘I want you and your oga to settle,’” Fubara recounted.
Fubara acknowledged Wike’s significant role in his political rise, stating that no matter their differences, it is impossible to ignore Wike’s contributions and sacrifices.
“Regardless of what has happened, nobody here can deny the pivotal role my oga played in getting us here. He took real risks, and while we may have had serious disagreements, we must recognize the truth of his past support,” he said.
The governor emphasized that true reconciliation cannot be imposed externally but must stem from sincere, mutual understanding.
“No matter how skilled the mediator is, authentic peace only comes when both parties sit down and agree that peace is what they truly want,” Fubara noted, revealing that he and Wike have already held private discussions to address their grievances.
“I’ve spoken with him personally. Yes, he’s been hurt, and I have my own pains as well. But if peace requires making some sacrifices—not involving my life—I’m willing to offer that so we can move forward. I still appreciate him in my quiet moments,” he added.
Assuring his supporters that he would not abandon them, Fubara called for patience and unity as the state works toward full reconciliation.
“I know it’s hard, but we must accept the reality. This is a time for me to demonstrate my loyalty to you. I will not leave anyone behind,” he pledged.
Fubara underscored the urgency of reconciliation, stating that Rivers State cannot make meaningful progress or receive federal support without resolving the ongoing political crisis.
“The peace we’re working towards will require real sacrifices, and I want everyone to be ready for it. Without it, we can’t advance or benefit from presidential intervention,” he said.
He also highlighted how the prolonged feud has led to stalled development efforts, with several projects abandoned due to the political standoff.
“We’ve fought hard. And if we’re honest with ourselves, the only viable path now is peace. I said it before, and I’ll say it again—no price is too high for peace, and I’m committed to pursuing it to the end,” Fubara affirmed.
Acknowledging the mixed reactions among his followers, he appealed to them to prioritize the overall interest of the state.
“Some of you may feel disappointed, but if we truly believe we are one family and are aligned with the president’s vision, then we must put aside personal feelings and come together.”
Using a local proverb to reinforce the importance of humility and long-term thinking, Fubara said:
“There’s a native fish we call ‘Atabala’—you call it tilapia. It doesn’t grow big. But the mother tilapia always tells the young ones: ‘If you want to grow big like me, hide your head inside the mud.’ That’s how we must be now—calm and strategic.”
He concluded by reiterating that the moment calls for understanding and maturity.
“We’ve done our best. Now, what we need most is peace. I know it’s not easy, but it’s the path we must take to grow,” he said.
