Tensions between the two key figures in the ongoing Rivers State political crisis, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, remain palpable. The two men allegedly refused to exchange pleasantries when they met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
Both Wike and Governor Fubara were part of a delegation from Ogoni, which visited the President to discuss the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland. Despite being present for the photo opportunity with the President, sources revealed that there was no warm interaction between the two men. They refrained from exchanging greetings, hugs, or any other formal pleasantries. After the group photograph, Wike returned to his duties, as he had been involved in inspecting and commissioning projects earlier in the day.
A source who was present at the meeting mentioned that the meeting was strictly focused on business and discussions related to the Ogoni oil production. The political crisis between Wike and Fubara was not brought up during the session.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, has previously stated that he would never reconcile with Fubara as long as the political turmoil continues. Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) has set up a peace committee, led by former Akwa Ibom State Governor Obong Victor Attah, with the aim of facilitating dialogue and reconciliation between the two warring politicians for the sake of Rivers State’s progress.
Observers are hopeful that this initiative could offer a breakthrough in resolving the political rift between the two leaders.
