Fubara Didn’t Sign Peace Deal with Wike Under Duress, Clarifies Commissioner

In a recent revelation on Channels Television’s Lunchtime Politics, Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, dispelled rumors that Governor Siminalayi Fubara signed a peace agreement with predecessor Nyesom Wike under duress. Johnson, who participated in the meeting, emphasized that the governor did not negotiate from a position of weakness, denying any external pressure.

“The governor did not sign the agreement under any form of pressure. When people disagree, they come to the round table and settle,” Johnson stated during the live appearance.

The strife in Rivers State has unfolded over the past three months, turning the state House of Assembly into a “boxing ring.” The clash between Fubara and Wike led to legislative divisions, with 27 lawmakers defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The feud resulted in parallel sittings, an impeachment plot against the governor, the demolition of the Assembly complex, and the resignation of pro-Wike commissioners from Fubara’s cabinet.

President Tinubu intervened on Monday, meeting with Fubara and Wike at the Aso Villa in Abuja. Following the meeting, the President directed the withdrawal of all court cases initiated by Fubara and his team. Additionally, the leadership of Martin Amaewhule in the Rivers State House of Assembly was recognized over Edison Ehie. Nine commissioners who resigned from Fubara’s cabinet are also set to be reinstated.

Controversy surrounds the peace agreement, with elder statesman Pa Edwin Clark suggesting that Fubara was “ambushed” into signing. Johnson, addressing doubts about Fubara’s signature, asserted that for the governor, no price is too high for peace.

“The Bible says we should pursue peace with all men at all costs. Mr. Governor is a stickler for the rules, and if His Excellency, the President has intervened, he is not a man of perfidy. He will not say something and do the other,” Johnson affirmed.

In the coming hours, Johnson hinted at unveiling approvals from Governor Fubara, signaling a commitment to the peace agreement and dispelling any skepticism surrounding the accord.