Fubara’s Men Absent at Governor’s Reunion with Wike
Tensions in Rivers State remain palpable even after the lifting of emergency rule — as recent events show that reconciliation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his political predecessor, Nyesom Wike, may still be more symbolic than real.
🔍 What Happened
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After six months of emergency rule in Rivers State, which saw Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly suspended, they were reinstated following President Tinubu’s declaration.
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Despite being ordered to resume, Governor Fubara was absent from public events marking the resumption: he did not show up at the Government House, though the state assembly resumed its sittings. Supporters had gathered expecting him.
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More notably, members aligned with Wike (local government chairmen, lawmakers loyal to Wike) were also absent from the welcoming or reunion activities with Governor Fubara. In contrast, Fubara’s own camp (his supporters, past chairmen, commissioners loyal to him) mobilized for events like his airport welcome and independence thanksgiving. (Port Harcourt Spectator
⚖️ Reactions & What It Suggests
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Some political watchers see the absences as a sign that reconciliation between Wike and Fubara is still fragile, and that loyalty divisions remain alive more than ever. (Port Harcourt Spectator)
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There are suggestions that members loyal to Wike are withholding public cooperation or presence until they see visible changes or concrete assurances from Fubara’s administration.
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Some supporters expressed frustration. Those who came expecting to see Fubara at the Government House or at reunions felt disappointed. Others see the absences as political statements, rather than mere scheduling conflicts.
🗓 Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 18, 2025 | Emergency rule declared in Rivers State; Fubara, his deputy & the Assembly suspended. |
| September 17-18, 2025 | Emergency rule lifted; Fubara, deputy, Assembly instructed to resume. |
| September 18 | Assembly resumes sitting; Fubara absent; supporters gather at Government House. |
| Following days | Celebratory events and welcome gestures from Fubara’s political base; Wike camp’s absence becomes noticeable. |
✅ What This Means & What to Watch
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Symbolism vs Substance: While peace is officially restored, gestures like these (reunion events) are proving sensitive. Absence of key figures suggests that reconciliation may still be superficial in some quarters.
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Test of Trust: Wike’s loyalists likely want actions that show Fubara is genuinely governing inclusively, not just in public ceremonies. Policy moves, appointments, or statements may be examined for fairness.
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Political Messaging: Each absence sends a message — either distance, protest, or caution. The media and the public will interpret absences as political signals, which can either fuel or inhibit peace.
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Potential for Conflict or Resolution: If the factions do not reconcile more meaningfully — through dialogue and visible power sharing — the undercurrents of discord may re-emerge. Alternatively, if Fubara reaches out and demonstrates gestures of inclusion, this could swing in favor of stability.
👉 As Rivers State moves forward, genuine peace will depend less on ceremonies and more on visible unity. The public deserves more than sealed offices and reconciliatory statements; they deserve governance that reflects fairness, inclusion, and trust.
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