Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced that peace has finally been restored in Rivers State, following a prolonged political standoff with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
He said he owes no one an explanation for the terms of the settlement that led to the truce.
Speaking during a media chat in Abuja, Wike accused some individuals of exploiting the crisis for personal gain, likening their involvement to “feeding off an oil well.”
He said those benefitting from the conflict are now displeased that calm has returned.
“Some people got fat off the crisis. Now that peace is back, they’re no longer happy.
I don’t owe anybody an explanation. What matters is that Rivers State is moving forward,” Wike stated.
He described his reconciliation with Governor Fubara as a step taken in the interest of the state and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Rivers.
Meanwhile, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum has applauded the peace accord between the former political allies.
The group urged President Bola Tinubu to complete the reconciliation process by lifting what they described as a “de facto state of emergency” in the state and restoring all suspended democratic institutions.
In a statement signed by its acting chairman and former deputy governor, Dr. Gabriel Toby, the Forum praised both Wike and Fubara for demonstrating maturity in settling their differences.
It also thanked President Tinubu for intervening when earlier appeals for dialogue were ignored.
“The crisis has done deep damage to the unity and image of Rivers State,” the statement read.
“We appeal to the President to lift the emergency atmosphere and let democracy fully return, in line with the will of the people.”
Although the details of the truce have not been disclosed, the Forum expressed hope that the agreement respects constitutional principles and the rule of law.
“Our only interest is the collective well-being of Rivers State,” the Forum stated.
“This reconciliation should mark a new beginning based on mutual respect, unity, and a shared commitment to development.”
They concluded by calling on all stakeholders to support the peace effort and work together to restore pride, stability, and purpose in the state.