Governors from the South-South region, along with members of the National Assembly, are taking active steps to mediate the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. This development follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, citing a breakdown in governance due to the conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and state lawmakers, as well as security concerns.
Key political stakeholders have since launched efforts to mend relations between Fubara and lawmakers aligned with former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
As part of the emergency measures, President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly. In their place, he appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ette Ibas, as the sole administrator.
Invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Tinubu defended his actions as necessary to stabilize the state. However, many political analysts and stakeholders have questioned the decision, arguing it may have overstepped constitutional boundaries.
According to sources within the presidency, the emergency rule is meant to be temporary, allowing time for reconciliation between the opposing factions. Reports indicate that both the Senate and South-South governors are playing a significant role in these peace efforts.
One source explained, “The emergency rule is intended to ease tensions and create an environment where meaningful discussions can take place.”
Additionally, there are discussions about forming a mediating panel in line with the National Assembly’s recommendations. Another government insider added, “Even the sole administrator’s role includes ensuring reconciliation. His mandate is to restore stability and encourage both sides to come together for peace.”
The House of Representatives is expected to establish a committee to oversee the affairs of the Rivers State House of Assembly during this crisis.
Deputy House Spokesman Philip Agbese confirmed ongoing consultations both within and outside the National Assembly. “The Speaker and House leadership are working on the matter, and an official announcement on the committee’s formation will be made soon. Our main priority is restoring peace in Rivers State,” he stated.
However, lawmakers have expressed concerns about Tinubu’s directive that the sole administrator report directly to the Federal Executive Council. Some argue that Section 305 of the Constitution must be considered alongside Section 11, which grants the National Assembly power to legislate for a state assembly when it becomes dysfunctional.
Lere Olayinka, Special Assistant to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on Public Communication and Social Media, stated that Wike is not opposed to peace talks. However, he emphasized that Fubara should have implemented the Supreme Court ruling immediately.
“The Minister supports discussions for peace. It is the responsibility of the National Assembly to mediate, and if the presidency chooses to do the same, that’s their decision,” Olayinka said.
He also dismissed calls for Wike’s removal from the federal cabinet over the crisis, stating, “People can say whatever they want, but whether their opinions are reasonable is another matter.”
Governor Fubara’s Special Assistant on Electronic Media, Jerry Omatsogunwa, reiterated the governor’s commitment to a peaceful resolution. He argued that Fubara has always extended an olive branch to the Assembly, but lawmakers have been uncooperative.
“If you look at the events leading up to the emergency rule, you’ll see that the governor has been advocating for peace, while the Assembly has taken an aggressive stance. Instead of responding to his calls for dialogue, they chose to adjourn indefinitely,” Omatsogunwa stated.
He further noted that Fubara had already begun implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment and that the real question was whether the lawmakers, whom he alleged were taking directives from Abuja, were willing to accept mediation.
