JUST IN: Political Truce in Rivers State: Wike, Fubara Settle Differences After Talks With Tinubu

Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike have reached a truce after a crucial meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Villa in Abuja on Monday.

The meeting, attended by key figures including Peter Odili, former governor of the state, and some traditional rulers, aimed to address the escalating political turmoil that has gripped Rivers State in recent months.

The rift, primarily centered around the state House of Assembly, witnessed 27 lawmakers defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Wike, currently serving as a minister in the APC-led central government, found himself at odds with Governor Fubara, leading to parallel sittings, an impeachment plot, the demolition of the Assembly complex, and the resignation of pro-Wike commissioners.

Following the intervention of President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, the warring parties agreed on several resolutions. These include the withdrawal of all court matters initiated by Fubara, dropping impeachment proceedings against Fubara, and recognizing Martin Amaewhule as the leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly along with his 26 allies who switched from the PDP to the APC.

Additionally, the agreement stipulates the reinstatement of remunerations and benefits for Assembly members and their staff, ensuring the Assembly’s autonomy in choosing its location for legislative activities, and the re-presentation of the state budget by Governor Fubara to a properly constituted House of Assembly.

The accord also addresses the resignations of commissioners affected by the political crisis, emphasizing their resubmission to the House of Assembly for approval. Furthermore, it nullifies the dissolution of the Local Government administration, prohibiting the formation of a caretaker committee for local governments in Rivers State. The dissolution is deemed null and void and will not be recognized.