The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has drawn national attention, with tensions escalating between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. While some have sought to link Wike to the crisis, the facts reveal a different narrative—one where Fubara’s betrayal of political agreements and disregard for legal directives have fueled instability.

Wike: A Man of Law and Order

As a seasoned lawyer and former governor, Wike has consistently adhered to legal and constitutional provisions in his political engagements. His track record in governance shows his commitment to due process, and in the current crisis, he has done nothing outside the confines of the law.

Despite claims to the contrary, Wike has not instigated the political turmoil in Rivers. Instead, it was Fubara’s failure to honor agreements and obey legal rulings that led to the escalation. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened to broker peace, both parties initially agreed to a resolution. However, Fubara later backtracked, refusing to fully implement the agreements reached under the President’s supervision.

Supreme Court Judgment and Fubara’s Evasion

A major point of contention has been Fubara’s refusal to implement a Supreme Court judgment, which should have resolved key issues in the crisis. Rather than following the law, he sought to sidestep the ruling by fostering political unrest. His actions, which include resisting a legally recognized House of Assembly and attempting to undermine the state’s democratic structures, have only deepened the conflict.

Furthermore, reports of attacks on oil installations and security threats in the state have raised concerns. Such incidents have been linked to efforts to create a state of chaos, potentially providing a pretext for avoiding compliance with legal directives. If anyone is destabilizing Rivers, it is those who refuse to obey the rule of law, not those advocating for it.

Setting the Record Straight

The notion that Wike is behind the crisis ignores the reality of Fubara’s political maneuvering. The governor was elected with Wike’s support, yet he quickly turned against the very structure that brought him to power. His reluctance to follow due process and the intervention of the Presidency speaks volumes about his approach to governance.

As things stand, Wike remains on the side of the law. His actions have been guided by legal principles, while Fubara’s defiance has fueled the crisis. Those genuinely interested in peace in Rivers State must recognize where the real problem lies—not with the FCT Minister, but with a governor unwilling to follow the agreements and legal decisions meant to resolve the situation.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Rivers State moves toward stability or deeper chaos. However, one thing remains clear—Wike’s stance has been rooted in legality, while Fubara’s actions have raised more questions than answers.