Wike confirms Tinubu’s intervention in Rivers crisis, hopes it ends rift

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that President Bola Tinubu recently intervened in the political crisis in Rivers State, expressing optimism that the mediation will permanently resolve the dispute.

Wike disclosed this on Tuesday while speaking with journalists during a routine inspection of infrastructure projects across the FCT.

He said the President stepped in to address tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, describing Tinubu’s involvement as that of a “father” seeking peace among the parties.

“All I can tell you is that Mr President has been very kind to the people of the state,” Wike said. “If there seems to be a problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father, he has to intervene. This is the second time he is intervening, and I believe, by the grace of God, this will be the last time.”

The former Rivers governor added that he had urged the State Assembly to comply with the President’s directives and expressed confidence that both the lawmakers and the governor would honour the agreement to prevent further discord.

“I have told the Assembly to do the needful and obey Mr President. I also believe the governor will play his part so Rivers people will no longer hear this kind of crisis,” he said.

Meanwhile, Wike continued inspections of ongoing road projects in Abuja to ensure contractors meet quality standards and deadlines.

During the tour, he announced the completion of the Arterial Road N5 at Life Camp, also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road 3.

“We were at Life Camp, N5, and it’s completely finished. What they are working on now are the walkways, and the streetlights are already in place,” he said.

The project, handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is undergoing final touches and forms part of key infrastructure projects scheduled for inauguration ahead of the FCT’s 50th anniversary in 2026.

Wike reiterated that regular inspections would continue to ensure contractors deliver projects on schedule and to specification.