```html Tinubu Intervenes to Resolve Rivers State Political Crisis Between Wike and Fubara

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has brokered a peace agreement between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, following months of escalating political tensions. A closed-door reconciliation meeting, convened by the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, June 26, 2025, brought together the key figures in the Rivers State political crisis, including Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and other principal lawmakers.

Presidential Intervention Follows Months of Turmoil

The intervention comes after a protracted period of political instability in Rivers State, characterized by a deepening rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. While details of the meeting remain undisclosed, it is understood that President Tinubu emphasized the need for all parties to prioritize peace and good governance in the interest of the state.

Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed the meeting via a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting President Tinubu's commitment to resolving the crisis.

The Genesis of the Wike-Fubara Rift

The political crisis between Wike and Fubara emerged shortly after Fubara assumed office as governor in 2023, succeeding Wike. Despite Wike's instrumental role in Fubara's election, tensions arose amid allegations that Wike sought to maintain undue influence over the state's affairs from his position as FCT Minister. This perceived overreach led to friction and eventually, a public falling out between the two leaders.

By late 2023, the rift had escalated, with Governor Fubara reportedly resisting Wike's influence, leading to confrontations between the executive branch and the Rivers State House of Assembly, largely perceived to be loyal to Wike. The situation reached a critical point in December 2023 when the Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara, triggering widespread protests and political paralysis.

Attempted Impeachment and State of Emergency

The crisis deepened further when security forces intervened at the Assembly complex, leading to accusations of state-sponsored intimidation. In response to the escalating tensions, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State earlier this year, a move that was met with mixed reactions and raised questions about the extent of federal intervention in state affairs.

Expert Analysis: A Fragile Peace?

Dr. Adebayo Williams, a political analyst at the University of Lagos, commented on the intervention, stating, "While President Tinubu's intervention is a welcome step towards de-escalation, the underlying issues that fueled the crisis between Wike and Fubara remain largely unaddressed. The long-term sustainability of this peace agreement will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise and prioritize the interests of the Rivers State people over personal ambitions."

According to Barrister Chioma Okafor, a legal expert specializing in constitutional law, "The declaration of a state of emergency, though controversial, highlighted the severity of the situation in Rivers State. The current reconciliation effort must be accompanied by concrete measures to strengthen state institutions and promote the rule of law to prevent future recurrence of such crises."

Implications for Rivers State Politics

The truce brokered by President Tinubu represents a significant turning point in Rivers State's political landscape. However, the long-term impact of this intervention remains to be seen. The ability of Wike and Fubara to overcome their differences and work together for the benefit of the state will be crucial in ensuring lasting peace and stability.

The reconciliation meeting included key political rivals. The crisis began shortly after Fubara succeeded Wike as governor. President Tinubu emphasized the need for peace and good governance.

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