Fubara Vs. Wike: Why A Political Resolution Is Better Than Court Decisions

Niger Delta Leaders Advocate Political Settlement in Rivers State Crisis

The recent meeting of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, was both revealing and strategic. The primary focus was the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, which dominated discussions between President Bola Tinubu and key South-South leaders. While the Supreme Court has issued its ruling, PANDEF emphasized the necessity of a political solution over prolonged legal battles.

PANDEF’s High-Profile Delegation Meets Tinubu

Led by Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and former military governor of old Rivers State, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, alongside former Akwa-Ibom State Governor, Obong Victor Attah, PANDEF presented their concerns. Other prominent figures in attendance included Ambassador Godknows Igali, former Bayelsa State Governor Senator Seriake Dickson, legal expert Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), and former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke.

President Tinubu, acknowledging the absence of PANDEF’s founding leader, Pa Edwin Clark, requested a moment of silence in his honor. The delegation’s main request was clear: an urgent political resolution to the conflict between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

PANDEF Urges Tinubu to Mediate Between Wike and Fubara

King Diete-Spiff reiterated PANDEF’s support for Tinubu’s administration and called for direct intervention. Obong Victor Attah, chair of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee, underlined the urgent need for an amicable resolution. He pointed out that the crisis has already heightened tensions in the region, necessitating swift mediation.

The PANDEF delegation stressed that while the Supreme Court ruling should be upheld, governance should not be derailed by endless legal confrontations. They urged Tinubu to impress upon both Wike and Fubara the importance of prioritizing peace over personal or political interests.

President Tinubu Calls for Compliance with Supreme Court Ruling

In response, President Tinubu urged South-South leaders to guide Governor Fubara in adhering to the Supreme Court’s verdict. He reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law and emphasized that all parties must work towards a stable governance structure in Rivers State.

“I have been closely monitoring the situation,” Tinubu said. “We reached a written agreement, and both parties signed. The Supreme Court has spoken, and that is final. I urge you to return home and ensure that peace is restored.”

Tinubu also acknowledged the economic importance of the Niger Delta and reassured the delegation that infrastructural development in the region remains a priority. He highlighted ongoing projects, including the coastal road construction and new port developments, as signs of progress.

The Way Forward: Political Reconciliation Over Legal Battles

Despite Tinubu’s call for Supreme Court compliance, PANDEF insists that a court ruling alone will not resolve the deeply rooted political tensions in Rivers State. The delegation believes that a mutually beneficial political agreement is the only way to prevent further destabilization.

Political analysts argue that Wike’s influence in Rivers State politics remains strong, and without his cooperation, a lasting solution may be difficult. PANDEF has proposed continued negotiations, with Tinubu playing a key role in ensuring peace prevails.