Fresh indications have emerged that President Bola Tinubu has once again intervened in the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, as tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, intensify amid renewed impeachment moves against the governor.
Highly placed sources close to the Presidency disclosed that Tinubu has summoned Wike for talks over the deepening Rivers crisis, signalling growing concern at the federal level over the political instability in one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing states. The meeting, according to insiders, is expected to take place outside the country.
Multiple sources also confirmed that Governor Fubara recently travelled out of Nigeria on a private jet, reportedly with plans to meet the President in France. Tinubu is currently on an overseas trip, which is expected to include stops in France and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
Fresh Impeachment Moves Heighten Tensions
The renewed presidential intervention comes against the backdrop of a fresh impeachment process initiated against Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly said to be loyal to Wike.
During a plenary session on Thursday, presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Assembly’s Majority Leader, Major Jack, formally read out a notice detailing allegations of gross misconduct against the governor. The accusations include the demolition of the Assembly complex, extra-budgetary spending, alleged withholding of funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, and refusal to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on the House’s financial autonomy.
Deputy Governor Odu was also accused of reckless and unconstitutional spending, obstructing legislative activities, and allegedly enabling unauthorised individuals to occupy government offices without Assembly approval.
Amaewhule announced that the impeachment notice would be formally served on Fubara within seven days and adjourned plenary proceedings until January 15. He described the process as being in the “interest of Rivers State,” accusing the governor of undermining legislative authority by failing to present the 2026 budget.
Notably, the allegations mirror earlier charges that led to Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025, during which Fubara and his deputy were suspended for six months. Tinubu had personally mediated the dispute at the time, brokered a truce between Fubara and Wike, and restored civilian rule.
However, barely three months after the emergency rule ended, tensions resurfaced, with both men exchanging sharp words publicly. Wike accused Fubara of reneging on their agreement, while the governor made indirect but pointed remarks aimed at his former political mentor.
Presidency Alarmed by Escalation
A senior source familiar with developments at the Presidency told Saturday PUNCH that Tinubu is increasingly uneasy with the direction of the crisis.
“The President sees the danger in what is happening. Wike has been summoned, and barring any last-minute change, the meeting will hold abroad,” the source said. “Wike cannot impeach Fubara. The President will call him to order.”
The source described the impeachment push as an affront to the President and warned that mishandling the crisis could have far-reaching security and economic consequences, particularly in the Niger Delta.
“If care is not taken, this situation could push Ijaw youths back to the creeks,” the source warned, noting that Rivers State is critical to Nigeria’s oil production. “The fear of a breakdown of law and order was one of the reasons the emergency rule was declared last year.”
Another presidential aide, however, said he was unaware of a scheduled meeting between Tinubu and Wike, adding that only an appointment with the President would justify Wike’s travel abroad.
APC Leaders Express Discontent
Disquiet over Wike’s actions is reportedly growing within the All Progressives Congress (APC). A senior administrative official at the APC national secretariat disclosed that party leaders are planning to meet Tinubu upon his return to Nigeria to express concerns over the Rivers situation.
“Our leaders are unhappy that Wike is threatening Fubara in the same manner he did when both were in the PDP,” the official said. “Some believe that even if Fubara will not seek a second term, he should be allowed to complete his tenure.”
An APC National Working Committee member, speaking anonymously, warned that Wike’s conduct risks portraying the President as weak and insensitive to national challenges.
“At a time when Nigeria is grappling with insecurity and international scrutiny, creating another political crisis in Rivers State is reckless,” the official said.
Diverging Reactions and Calls for Dialogue
While Wike’s spokesperson could not be reached for comment, an ally of the minister dismissed claims that he was behind the impeachment process, insisting that the Rivers lawmakers were acting independently. The ally also rejected allegations of disrespect toward Tinubu, describing Wike as a loyal supporter of the President.
Meanwhile, former Rivers East Senator Andrew Uchendu described the prolonged crisis as an embarrassment to the state and called for a comprehensive dialogue involving all stakeholders and elder statesmen.
Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose also weighed in, warning that only “fasting and prayers” could save Fubara from impeachment. Fayose urged the governor to adopt a more conciliatory approach, drawing from his own experience of impeachment and reinstatement.
Wike Preaches Unity Amid Political Storm
Despite the controversy, Wike on Friday called for unity among political leaders in Rivers State during a “thank-you” visit to Andoni Local Government Area. He spoke of a “Rainbow Coalition” of political interests in the state and urged continued support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
Observers say Tinubu’s latest intervention could prove decisive in determining whether Rivers State slides deeper into political turmoil or returns to uneasy stability, with national implications for governance, security, and economic confidence.
Source: Africa Publicity
