Port Harcourt, Rivers State — The ongoing political unrest in Rivers State has taken yet another turn as a close associate of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has raised questions about Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s sincerity in his reported efforts to make peace with his predecessor.
Samuel Nwanosike, a staunch supporter of Wike, voiced these concerns during a recent interview, where he accused Fubara of being two-faced calling for reconciliation while allegedly backing protests against the state’s political leadership.
According to Nwanosike, it was contradictory for Governor Fubara to claim he sought peace when his loyalists continued to hold demonstrations on the streets of Port Harcourt. He alleged that some of these protests were not only disruptive but even involved women reportedly protesting unclothed over political disputes a situation he described as embarrassing to the dignity of Rivers women.
Confirming that Fubara had indeed met with Wike in an attempt to reconcile, Nwanosike stressed that the issue at hand was much larger than personal differences. He explained that it concerned “the people who contributed, mentally and financially, to his emergence,” adding that these individuals have faced disrespect and abuse since the political fallout.
In his words: “You [Fubara] cannot come and tell us that you’re seeking peace when your supporters are protesting every day in the streets of Port Harcourt.”
His comments came on the heels of multiple protests within the state. Some groups have been actively calling for the governor’s reinstatement, while others supported the decision to suspend him. These protests have highlighted the deep divisions that persist among Rivers citizens over the political crisis.
Further intensifying the situation, a group of protesting women recently staged a walkout during an appearance by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady. The women reportedly used the moment to amplify their demands for the governor’s return to office.
It will be recalled that back in March, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the relentless political clashes between Fubara and Wike. The lingering feud had, according to the president, resulted in serious incidents, including the destruction of vital pipelines in the region.
Following the emergency declaration, Governor Fubara was suspended from office for an initial period of six months, with a sole administrator appointed to manage the affairs of the state while reporting directly to the National Assembly.
