In a bid to resolve the ongoing feud between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, President Bola Tinubu convened a meeting with critical stakeholders from Rivers State. The meeting resulted in an eight-point peace plan, but questions linger about whether it will truly end the crisis or usher in a mere “peace of the graveyard.”
Tinubu’s intervention, spurred by appeals from elders and leaders in Rivers State, aimed to prevent the escalation of the crisis, with warnings about its potential impact not only on the state but the entire Niger Delta region and Nigeria. One Love Foundation also expressed concern and called on Tinubu to intervene.
Contrary to public belief, an order from a Federal High Court, halting the removal of 27 lawmakers in Rivers State House of Assembly, had been issued two days before it surfaced on social media. The controversy surrounding the court order adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape.
The peace meeting, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Fubara, Wike, and other key figures, resulted in an eight-point communique titled “Directives for the resolution of the political impasse in Rivers State.” The directives include withdrawing court cases related to the crisis, dropping impeachment proceedings against the governor, recognizing the leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly, reinstating remunerations and benefits, and addressing the issue of local government administrations.
Rivers State Elders and Leaders Forum, led by former Governor Rufus Ada-George, urged Tinubu to consolidate his intervention and emphasized the need for a proper investigation into the crisis, condemning violence and lawlessness.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State expressed its determination to defend the 27 lawmakers, emphasizing support until they can resume their legislative duties. National Legal Adviser of APC, Abdulkarim Kana, welcomed the defected lawmakers into APC, acknowledging their decision.
However, concerns arose regarding the court order, as lawyers called for an investigation into the process leading to its issuance. A group called Concerned Lawyers in Defence of Democracy urged the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, to investigate to maintain the judiciary’s reputation.
As the drama unfolds, observers await the outcome of Tinubu’s peace plan, hoping it will bring genuine resolution and stability to the Rivers State political landscape.