Rivers Crisis: Why I can’t make Peace With Fubara – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political conflict between the two leaders.

Speaking during a live media chat broadcast on several television stations in Abuja on Sunday, Wike criticised Fubara for failing to adhere to directives issued by President Bola Tinubu during a peace meeting aimed at resolving their differences.

At the press briefing, Wike stated: “I’m wondering, what conflict to resolve? Mr President, in his wisdom, called all parties. He said withdraw the impeachment notice, you go and do this, you go and do that, but they never returned to him.

“The Assembly withdrew the impeachment notice; you did one and two, and then you sent people to go to court. Elder, have you gone back to Mr President to tell him we can’t do three and four? Nothing.

“I have never seen this in my life — for a president to call parties, and one party goes back and says it’s political. Who does tha

This statement underscored the deepening rift that has emerged since Fubara took office, with Wike accusing him of failing to fulfill his obligations as governor.

The feud has escalated tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 27 members have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to factionalism and a parallel assembly. The political landscape in Rivers State has been marked by power struggles as both leaders vie for control over state resources and influence.

Wike defended his infrastructure-focused agenda amid criticism for neglecting human capital development, asserting: “Infrastructure drives the economy.”

He emphasised that ongoing road projects are creating significant job opportunities, stating that over 200 people are employed through these initiatives in Kwali and surrounding areas. “These aren’t government positions; they are real opportunities,” he said, challenging the notion that employment is limited to government jobs.

“When we focus on infrastructure, human capital development naturally follows. It’s not just about government jobs; it’s about creating real opportunities. Not less than 200 people are being employed in Kwali and other areas. These aren’t government positions; these are people working as contractors and in other capacities that come with the development of our infrastructure.”

On concerns over the provision of streetlights on newly commissioned roads, Wike noted that the initial plans did not include streetlights but assured that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had taken action to address the issue.

“When we flagged off these projects last year, there was no provision for streetlights. But now, in places like Kuje and Kwali, streetlights have been provided,” Wike confirmed. “The roads we flagged off in November and December will have streetlights by May or June.”

The minister issued a stern warning to officials and landowners in Abuja, emphasising strict adherence to land regulations.

He reiterated his commitment to expediting the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), critical for business growth and financing. Wike highlighted that his administration had already signed 7,000 C of Os in two years, surpassing the total issued by previous governments from 2015 to 2023.

“When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” Wike said, disclosing that he had already removed two directors from the FCT Administration. “I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”

He disclosed that N300 billion is owed in Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, which he argued is delaying infrastructure development in the federal capital.

“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years. What kind of country are we in?” he asked