Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has made it clear: peace comes first, even if it hurts his most loyal supporters. Speaking to his followers in Port Harcourt, Fubara said, “There is no sacrifice too big for the peace, stability, and progress of the state.” That includes making peace with the one person many of his allies would rather he didn’t — his predecessor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
For months, Fubara’s supporters stood by him as his conflict with Wike deepened. Now, that same governor says reconciliation was always the plan. He insists every step was taken “with their collective interest in mind.”
“It Wasn’t Just My Decision”
Fubara told his supporters that the peace deal wasn’t a decision made in isolation. “At every stage, consultations were held with key stakeholders and trusted allies within my political family,” he said. But no matter how democratic the process, it’s clear many of his supporters feel blindsided. The reconciliation feels like a reward for a man they believed had worked against their progress.
He admitted it won’t be easy for everyone to adjust. “The new political realities may be painful,” Fubara said, referring to the visible tension since the truce was announced. But for him, “the larger goal remains the peace and stability of Rivers State.”
“Politics Has Slowed Down Development”
The governor didn’t hold back on the damage the political crisis has done. According to him, several development projects have stalled because of the power struggle. He said, “The political crisis has had a negative impact on governance,” but expressed hope that with peace in motion, things will return to normal.
“Difficult times call for difficult decisions and concessions,” he said — a statement that sounds like a reminder to supporters who still feel betrayed. Fubara’s words were measured, but the message was clear: even if loyalty must bleed, peace must survive.
“Wike Made Me Governor”
In one of the most talked-about moments, Governor Fubara acknowledged that Wike was instrumental in his political rise. “The political history cannot be erased,” he said. Whether that was an olive branch or a quiet admission of political debt, it sent a message, he’s not cutting off the hand that once lifted him up.
But supporters who fought hard for Fubara may not easily forget the months of division and the wounds left behind. For them, peace feels like silence. Concession feels like surrender.
Fubara Says Peace Is Bigger Than Loyalty
Whether this decision heals or haunts his legacy will depend not just on political strategy but on the people who believed he would stand firm. Either way, one truth remains: Fubara says peace is bigger than loyalty, and he’s betting his entire political capital on it.
