President Bola Tinubu has brokered a political truce that will see Siminalayi Fubara reinstated as Governor of Rivers State — but only under a set of strict conditions that significantly curb his authority and political future.
According to multiple sources familiar with the closed-door meeting held at the Presidential Villa on Thursday night, Fubara’s reinstatement is contingent on the following terms:
1. No Second Term Bid in 2027
Fubara must forgo any plans to contest for a second term. This was reportedly a non-negotiable point in the deal. Though he will complete his current four-year tenure, he has agreed not to stand for re-election in 2027, effectively ending his political ambition beyond his present term. Sources say this condition was aimed at placating the camp of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and Fubara’s political rival.
2. Local Government Control Handed to Wike
Another critical concession is the transfer of local government influence to Wike. Under the agreement, Wike will be allowed to nominate all 23 local government chairpersons across Rivers State. This handover effectively restores grassroots political machinery to Wike, granting him considerable leverage and influence over state affairs, particularly as preparations begin for the 2027 elections.
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3. Settlement of Lawmakers’ Entitlements
Fubara has also agreed to pay all outstanding allowances and entitlements owed to the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Wike. These lawmakers had been suspended amid the political standoff but continued to lay claim to their seats after defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). By settling their dues, Fubara seeks to de-escalate tensions and prevent further legal and political confrontation.
4. No Impeachment Proceedings
In return for these concessions, the pro-Wike lawmakers have pledged not to initiate impeachment proceedings against Fubara. This clause effectively ensures political stability — albeit on fragile terms — by shielding the governor from immediate legislative threats.
A High Price for Peace
Insiders close to the Presidency describe the meeting as a “breakthrough” in Tinubu’s efforts to restore order in Rivers State. However, the cost of peace is widely seen as heavily skewed against Governor Fubara.
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“The deal is simple: no second term, no grassroots control, no impeachment — and in exchange, calm is restored,” said a source familiar with the negotiations.
Political analysts suggest that while Tinubu’s intervention may halt the crisis in the short term, it also consolidates power firmly in Wike’s hands. With control over the local government structures and influence in the state legislature, Wike emerges from the truce with enhanced political capital.
“The real winner here is Wike,” one insider remarked. “Fubara may keep the title of governor, but Wike keeps the power.”
