Rivers And Bayelsa Unite To Resolve Soku Oil Wells And Property Disputes

The Governors of Rivers and Bayelsa States, Siminalayi Fubara and Douye Diri, have reiterated their dedication to fostering peace and cooperation between their states amid ongoing disputes concerning the Soku Oil Wells and Bayelsa’s properties in Port Harcourt.

This shared commitment was highlighted when Governor Douye Diri led a delegation of Bayelsa officials on a Christmas visit to Governor Fubara at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The visit followed a previous gesture by Governor Fubara, who had earlier visited Bayelsa’s capital, Yenagoa.

During the meeting, Governor Diri expressed his appreciation for Governor Fubara’s calm and peaceful approach to resolving the longstanding issues. He acknowledged the progress made in finding common ground over the ownership of the Soku Oil Wells and the repossession of Bayelsa’s properties—disputes that had escalated to a Supreme Court case under his administration.

Governor Fubara, in his response, emphasized the shared history of the two states, which were once part of a unified Rivers State. He noted that amicably settling these disputes serves the collective interest of both states. Furthermore, he highlighted his administration’s commitment to strengthening the BRACE Commission—a regional alliance involving Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Edo States—to boost regional development and integration.

Both leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and fostering a spirit of collaboration to ensure mutual growth and progress for their states.