The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has signalled an end to repeated presidential involvement in the lingering political dispute in Rivers State, insisting that President Bola Tinubu’s latest intervention should close the chapter.
Wike made the assertion while addressing journalists after an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, days after Tinubu hosted fresh reconciliation talks between him and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, at the Presidential Villa.
According to Wike, the President stepped in as a stabilising force and national leader, but such mediation, he argued, cannot become a routine solution to political disagreements within the state.
“The President acted out of responsibility and concern, not because he enjoys settling internal disputes,” Wike said.
“Leadership at the state level must eventually take full ownership of its challenges.”
He further explained that Tinubu had previously intervened in the Rivers crisis and expressed confidence that compliance with the President’s directives would prevent future escalation between the executive and the legislature.
“I have made it clear to all sides that the President’s position must be respected,” Wike said.
“Once that is done, there should be no reason for this issue to resurface again.”
Moreover, Wike maintained that persistent political tension distracts from governance and development, stressing that Rivers State should now focus on stability rather than prolonged power struggles.
Hence, he expressed optimism that the latest peace move would restore calm, adding that Nigerians should expect political actors in the state to prioritise unity and effective administration over confrontation.