Nigeria:  Tinubu Issues Ultimatum to Fubara, Wike: Settle Dispute or Face Consequences

Nigeria’s President Tinubu issued a stern warning that he won’t tolerate the escalating feud between Rivers Governor Fubara and his predecessor Wike threatening to destabilize the state, vowing to end the conflict if they don’t resolve it democratically. President Bola Tinubu has asserted his neutrality in the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, clarifying that he will not favor either Governor Siminalayi Fubara or his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the FCT Minister. Despite Tinubu’s efforts to broker peace, the feud persists, with a recent court order aggravating tensions.

Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, emphasized that Tinubu will not take sides, urging all stakeholders to cooperate for the benefit of Rivers’ citizens. The conflict stems from Wike’s influence in Fubara’s appointment, followed by a swift fallout, leading to a series of disputes and legal battles.

Despite a previous peace accord facilitated by Tinubu, hostilities resumed shortly after, signaling the complexity and intensity of the rift. The recent court injunction restraining lawmakers aligned with Wike from participating in state assembly affairs further escalated tensions. Ngelale reiterated the President’s commitment to ensuring that the Rivers State government operates smoothly for the welfare of its people.

He underscored Tinubu’s stance against any attempts to hinder the government’s functioning, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders to recognize the President’s impartiality and work towards constructive resolutions.