Rivers Crisis: “I Pleaded With Wike Multiple Times,” Says Fubara

I pleaded with Wike Countless Times,” Says Fubara** *Published on October 8, 2024,at 9:57 AM by Richard Ogunsile*Amid the growing tensions in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara revealed that he has humbly appealed to his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on numerous occasions in hopes of restoring peace in the state.

Fubara expressed that he had no regrets about proceeding with local government elections last Saturday, despite pushback from Wike’s supporters in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He emphasized that his appeals to Wike were genuine attempts at reconciliation.In an interview on Channels Television’s program, Politics Today, the governor shared his frustrations, stating that he has exhausted all avenues to maintain a collaborative relationship with Wike for the sake of state harmony.

Unfortunately, these efforts have not produced the results he hoped for. “I have done everything possible to foster peace. I can tell you how many times I have knelt down to plead for us to let this matter go. I have tried my best,” Fubara stated on October 7.According to Naija News, the political discord between Fubara and Wike intensified sharply during the recent local council elections. Despite the withdrawal of the PDP, APC, and police from the electoral process, the governor proceeded with the elections on Saturday.

Following the swearing-in of 22 council members amid this controversy, the state was plunged into chaos.Violent clashes erupted in at least four local government areas, with thugs setting fire to parts of buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua council offices. Additionally, there were reports of gunfire in Ahoada East as a response to the newly appointed council officials.

This violence followed the withdrawal of police officers, who were initially assigned to secure the council premises, based on directives from the commissioner of police.