President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly held a private meeting with suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara in London as part of efforts to resolve the prolonged political crisis in the state. The meeting is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political dynamics of Rivers, which have been marked by tension between Governor Fubara and other key political figures in the region.
According to The Africa Report, the meeting took place last week, shortly after President Tinubu departed Paris following his participation in international events. Sources familiar with the discussions revealed that the meeting was initiated at the request of Governor Fubara, who has been in a state of suspension due to the president’s earlier declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Fubara is reportedly eager to return to his office and resume his duties, and he sees the meeting with Tinubu as a critical step in resolving the political issues surrounding his suspension.
During the talks, Fubara is said to have expressed his willingness to make significant compromises in order to facilitate a political resolution. This could include a shift in his approach to governing or a willingness to align more closely with the policies of the president. A presidential adviser, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the ongoing negotiations are progressing, and from all indications, Fubara’s suspension may be lifted before the six-month period initially set for it has expired.
“Negotiations are ongoing, but from all indications, his suspension will be lifted before the six-month deadline,” the adviser said, offering a sense of optimism about the resolution of the crisis. The timeline for Fubara’s return to office is seen as crucial for maintaining political stability in Rivers State, and the meeting with President Tinubu is expected to play a key role in facilitating this process.
Another source close to the presidency hinted that Fubara is also considering joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that could serve as a strategic step to realign himself with President Tinubu’s administration and potentially gain political protection. This shift would not only strengthen his political standing but also position him as a key ally of the president in the region, which could improve the president’s chances of securing political support in Rivers State in the future.
“If Fubara joins the APC, it means the president’s chances of winning Rivers State are much higher,” the aide added, hinting that this move could have significant implications for the upcoming elections and the political landscape in Rivers State. The potential realignment with the APC is seen as a way for Fubara to secure his political future and potentially regain his position as governor in the state.
Notably absent from the London meeting was Fubara’s estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, who has been a dominant figure in Rivers State politics. Sources say Wike is displeased with the backchannel talks between President Tinubu and Governor Fubara, which reportedly took place without his involvement. Wike, who had once been a close ally of Fubara, is said to be frustrated by the lack of consultation and communication about the meeting, which has led to tensions between the two men. This absence and the apparent exclusion of Wike from the discussions may signal a deeper rift in the political dynamics of Rivers State, with significant ramifications for the future of both Fubara and Wike.
Sources close to Wike have indicated that he is unhappy with the way the situation is unfolding, as he feels left out of important decisions regarding the future of the state. The exclusion of Wike from the talks could further complicate efforts to resolve the crisis and bring about a lasting political settlement in Rivers State. The tension between Fubara and Wike is seen as a central factor in the political instability that has plagued the state, and how these two key figures navigate their relationship in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future direction of the region.