Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, alongside the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and the suspended Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, made a rare public appearance together on Saturday — just days after another round of peace talks convened at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The trio, who have been at the centre of a prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, were seen at a funeral service held in Rumueprikom, Wike’s hometown in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. Their joint appearance has stirred fresh speculation about possible reconciliation efforts following nearly two years of bitter political conflict.
Their presence at the event comes in the wake of Thursday’s high-level peace meeting brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. The meeting, which brought together Fubara, Wike, and other political stakeholders, aimed to bring an end to the ongoing dispute that has plagued the governance and stability of Rivers State.
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Political observers believe the public appearance could be a signal that efforts to resolve the crisis may finally be gaining traction. However, sources close to the matter say key issues remain unresolved behind the scenes.
Also present at the funeral service were several prominent political figures, including Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Senator George Thompson Sekibo, and Senator Olaka Nwogu. Other dignitaries in attendance included former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche; former House of Representatives Member, Hon. Ken Chikere; South-South Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Victor Giadom; and former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Dr Sam Sam Jaja.
Despite the show of unity, political insiders caution against assuming a full resolution of the crisis. Governor Fubara is expected to meet with his political supporters in a closed-door session later today to brief them on the outcome of the latest discussions held in Abuja with President Tinubu and Minister Wike.
The long-running dispute has seen divisions deepen within the state’s political structure, affecting legislative and executive relations, and prompting national intervention.
While the public reunion offers a glimmer of hope for peace in Rivers State, many are watching closely to see whether it marks a true turning point or merely a temporary ceasefire in an ongoing power struggle.
