The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cast doubt on the sincerity of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent attempts to reconcile with him.

Fubara, who has been embroiled in a political feud with his predecessor, Wike, visited the FCT minister’s Abuja residence to seek peace. The crisis between the two political figures had previously led to Fubara’s suspension, the declaration of a state of emergency, and the appointment of Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State.

Reports indicated that Fubara was escorted to Wike’s residence by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and former Ogun Governor Olusegun Osoba. During the visit, Fubara allegedly prostrated before Wike, calling him “My Oga” while holding his legs, an act that was reportedly aimed at mending their strained relationship.

However, Wike has expressed skepticism about the authenticity of Fubara’s reconciliation efforts. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, the FCT minister criticized the governor’s actions, suggesting that his visit for peace was not backed by genuine intent. Wike urged Fubara to be more transparent with President Bola Tinubu, questioning the sincerity of his actions. “It is not enough to be visiting people to plead for peace. Those who genuinely want peace work and act for it,” Wike stated.

The minister also responded to a related incident that took place during an Empowerment Programme organized by Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu. During the event, a group of women walked out when Theresa Ibas, the wife of Rivers State’s sole administrator, was introduced as Mrs. Tinubu’s representative. The women, visibly upset, demanded that Governor Fubara’s wife should represent the First Lady instead.

Wike condemned the walkout, labeling it a “sponsored” act by Fubara’s loyalists. “An insult on anyone representing the First Lady of Nigeria is a direct insult to the office of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Wike stated. He also expressed regret on behalf of his supporters for the embarrassing conduct of the women, emphasizing that it did not reflect the character of the people of Rivers State.

Reaffirming his position, Wike concluded, “All those shenanigans won’t bring peace, and I am sure they know that, because they are not sincere with their up and down pleadings for peace.”