President Bola Tinubu has initiated a closed-door discussion at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja with key figures from Rivers State, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, former governor Peter Odili, and other stakeholders. The meeting, commencing Monday evening, follows weeks of tension between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
While the specific agenda of the meeting remains undisclosed, it is believed to be linked to the political turmoil in Rivers State, notably the events of December 11. During this episode, 27 out of 32 State House of Assembly members, known to be loyal to Wike, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. Consequently, their seats were declared vacant by the legislature.
Former Governor Wike was seen earlier at the State House premises. Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Rivers State deputy governor are also reported to be present within the President’s office complex during this ongoing meeting.
The political unrest in Rivers State escalated to the demolition of the State House of Assembly complex, previously damaged by fire. Security personnel have reportedly barricaded the assembly entrance.
The House of Representatives clarified its stance on not assuming the functions of the embroiled Rivers State. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has distanced itself from the political crisis, emphasizing that Minister Nyesom Wike’s actions are personal and not influenced by federal directives. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris affirmed that the issue is a political matter within the state.
Rivers crisis: Tinubu meets Fubara, Odili, others in Aso Rock
