In a dramatic twist highlighting the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, allegedly avoided any form of interaction during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday. The meeting, centered on the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland, brought the two political gladiators under the same roof, but their mutual animosity was evident.
The Vanguard Newspaper, through its official X handle, broke the news, stating that Wike and Fubara, despite being part of the delegation from Rivers State, pointedly refused to exchange pleasantries.
According to a reliable source at the meeting, both leaders maintained their frosty demeanor throughout the engagement. “Though they posed for a group photograph with the President, there was no handshake, no hug—no form of acknowledgment between them. They went straight to the meeting, and after it ended, everyone dispersed without further interaction,” the source revealed.
Wike, who arrived at the Villa from a project inspection tour, reportedly left immediately after the group photograph and resumed his official duties. The source emphasized that Wike’s attendance was more of a procedural obligation, stating, “As a minister from Rivers, Wike must be present whenever the President meets with a delegation from the state. This meeting was strictly focused on resuming oil production in Ogoniland, not on resolving political differences.”
Contrary to speculation, the meeting did not serve as a platform for reconciliation between the estranged leaders. The source disclosed that the President only had a brief exchange with Magnus Abe, another prominent political figure from Rivers State.
“President Tinubu remarked on not seeing Magnus around lately. Magnus replied that he had been working with the FCT Minister. At that point, Wike corroborated Magnus’ statement, confirming his collaboration,” the source added.
The refusal of Wike and Fubara to acknowledge each other underscores the deepening cracks in Rivers State’s political landscape. Once allies, their relationship has soured, with Governor Fubara reportedly accusing Wike of undermining his administration. On the other hand, Wike, known for his combative political style, has remained unapologetic about his actions.
The Rivers political crisis continues to be a point of intrigue, with analysts speculating on its potential impact on governance and party dynamics. While the meeting at the Villa sought to address the economic prospects of Ogoniland, it inadvertently highlighted the entrenched divisions within Rivers State’s leadership.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the path to reconciliation between Wike and Fubara remains a steep and uncertain climb, with no resolution in sight.
PIONEER NEWS 