A protracted political crisis in Rivers State, primarily stemming from a power tussle between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has reportedly reached a resolution following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu. The disagreement, which had spilled over into the State House of Assembly, led to significant instability, including litigations, impeachment threats, and broader political contention within the oil-rich state.

The crisis escalated to such an extent that President Tinubu had previously intervened, notably in March, by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. This drastic measure involved a temporary suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly. During this period, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was nominated as Administrator to manage the state, underscoring the severity of the situation and the President's commitment to restoring order.

The latest breakthrough came during a crucial meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, attended by President Tinubu, Minister Wike, Governor Fubara, suspended Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly Martin Amaewhule, and a select group of lawmakers. This closed-door session led to a comprehensive peace deal aimed at halting the months of political tension and restoring democratic order in Rivers State.

As part of the truce, Governor Fubara has reportedly been reinstated to complete his current four-year tenure, but with a critical condition: he must forgo any ambition to seek re-election in 2027. This move, while securing his immediate tenure, significantly limits his future political clout. Sources indicate that Fubara agreed to this condition in exchange for political stability and the ability to complete his term without further friction.

Another key concession in the agreement grants Minister Nyesom Wike significant political leverage. He will be allowed to nominate all 23 local government chairpersons across the state. This provision ensures Wike's continued control over the grassroots political machinery, a crucial element ahead of future general elections and a major win for the FCT Minister.

Furthermore, Governor Fubara has committed to paying all outstanding allowances and entitlements owed to the 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike, who had been suspended from the state assembly. In a reciprocal move, these lawmakers, despite having defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and their legitimacy remaining a subject of legal and political debate, have agreed not to initiate any impeachment proceedings against the Governor.

Following the meeting, both Wike and Fubara affirmed that peace had returned to Rivers State. Wike stated that all parties had agreed to work together, emphasizing that human disagreements had been settled. Fubara echoed this sentiment, asserting that peace was essential for the progress of Rivers State and that efforts would be made to sustain it. While the resolution is seen as a significant breakthrough in Tinubu's efforts to broker peace, it comes with considerable political costs for Fubara, who has forfeited both a second-term bid and control over local government appointments, solidifying Wike's dominant political influence in the state.