President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has met privately with the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, in London.
The meeting, which was held at Governor Fubara’s request, was reportedly aimed at restoring peace and stability in the troubled state.
This development marks the first direct engagement between both men since the President declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18.
During that period, Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara and appointed Navy Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the sole administrator to manage the affairs of the oil-rich state.
According to a Presidential aide who was privy to the meeting, “The meeting was part of the efforts by the President to find a lasting solution to the ongoing political crisis in that region.”
The aide confirmed the meeting did occur, stressing that it was focused on peace and conflict resolution.
Therefore, this private meeting is seen as a major step toward resolving the issues rather than simply appointing temporary figures to handle the situation.
Moreover, Fubara’s estranged political mentor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was reportedly excluded from the London talks.
Sources close to the matter claim that Wike was “uneasy about such discussions taking place without him,” reflecting the growing divide within the Rivers political scene.
Meanwhile, plans are underway for President Tinubu to hold another round of talks.
This time, he is expected to meet jointly with Fubara, Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The goal is to reach a lasting political solution and ensure public office holders begin to take responsibility for their actions.
In addition, a previous meeting was held between Wike and lawmakers loyal to him, also in London.
Though details from that gathering were limited, insiders suggest it may have influenced the decision to hold broader peace talks involving all parties.
The meeting between Tinubu and Fubara has now added momentum to resolving the Rivers State political crisis, giving hope to residents for a more stable and peaceful future.
