River Crisis: Jonathan Calls For Truce Between Fubara, Wike

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for an end to the political crisis in Rivers State, urging Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to collaborate for the state’s development. Jonathan made this appeal on Monday during the flag-off ceremony of the Trans-Kalabari Road project.

Jonathan expressed concern over the ongoing discord between the current and former governors, emphasizing the need for unity for the benefit of Rivers State.

“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must understand that working together for the collective interest of the state is critical,” Jonathan stated. “In the case of Rivers, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must collaborate to advance the development of Rivers State. The tension will not help.”

A Critical Juncture for Rivers State

Rivers State has been plagued by political turmoil since late last year, stemming from a fallout between Wike, now the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, and Fubara. Despite President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, the conflict recently escalated.

Several commissioners loyal to Wike have resigned again, and lawmakers aligned with the FCT Minister have intensified their confrontations with Governor Fubara.

Jonathan highlighted the strategic importance of maintaining stability in Rivers State, a vital region in the Niger Delta known for its significant oil production.

“Rivers State is very critical in this country. Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta. If Rivers State is destabilized, the whole country will be destabilized,” Jonathan warned the audience.