JUST IN: Fubara Meets Amaewhule, Lawmakers in First Major Reconciliation Effort

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has taken a significant step toward resolving the prolonged political crisis in the state by meeting with suspended Speaker of the House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and other aggrieved lawmakers. The closed-door meeting, held Thursday in Abuja, marked the first direct engagement between Fubara and the legislators since tensions escalated.

According to multiple sources familiar with the development, the meeting ended on a positive note, with Fubara seen holding Amaewhule’s hands as they shared laughter, signaling a thaw in relations. A source present at the meeting described it as “fruitful,” adding that a larger peace meeting is being planned to iron out reconciliation terms.

Fubara, who was suspended from office on March 19 after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, appears to be moving deliberately towards mending fences. The emergency measure, ratified by the National Assembly, had led to the appointment of former Naval Chief, Vice-Admiral Ibok Ete-Ibas, as interim administrator of the state for a six-month period to allow for political healing.

Though Fubara had previously met with President Tinubu and his estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, Thursday’s engagement with the lawmakers is being hailed by observers as the most crucial step yet toward lasting reconciliation. Wike had repeatedly insisted that peace would only be achievable if Fubara directly engaged the lawmakers, who reportedly endured over two years without salaries or allowances.

The meeting has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including members of Fubara’s support base known as the “Simplified Family,” many of whom view it as a long-overdue and meaningful gesture towards restoring peace and stability in Rivers State.