By: Ovieomeleh
PORT HARCOURT — July 4, 2025
In a heartfelt appeal for unity and progress, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum has lauded the recent reconciliation between former political rivals, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.
The Forum, in a press statement signed by its Acting Chairman, His Excellency, Alabo Dr. Gabriel Toby, DSSRS, KSC, described the political feud that engulfed the state over recent months as “a sad development that deeply wounded the soul of our dear state.” The protracted crisis, which also involved the State House of Assembly, cast what the group called “an undeserved shadow” over Rivers’ image, unity, and developmental aspirations.
“We have watched, with pain and deep reflection, the divisions that pitched two of our sons against each other,” the statement read. “But today, we thank God and commend the maturity and courage shown by both leaders in embracing peace and the reconciliation process.”
The Rivers Elders acknowledged the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whom they had earlier petitioned to mediate when local peace efforts failed to gain traction. “From the beginning, we extended an olive branch and invited both parties to a roundtable. Unfortunately, our efforts were not heeded, and we had to call on Mr. President to step in,” the Forum stated.
While applauding the peace initiative, the group noted that details of the reconciliation terms were still under wraps. Nonetheless, they emphasized that any settlement must be consistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and rooted in the principles of the rule of law.
In a significant policy call, the Forum urged the Federal Government to lift any form of state of emergency imposed on Rivers State and to fully restore all suspended democratic structures, ensuring the will of the people is respected and democratic governance functions without obstruction.
“The time has come for our institutions to operate freely and transparently. The peace we celebrate must not just be symbolic, but institutional, with restored trust in our systems of governance,” the statement emphasized.
The Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum reiterated that their sole interest has been the welfare, dignity, and unity of the state. “We seek no personal gain, political favour, or reward. Our only desire is to see Rivers State thrive.”
They called on all Rivers people to view this reconciliation not as the conclusion of disagreements, but the beginning of a new era—anchored on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and a commitment to peace and development.
“Let Rivers State rise again in pride and purpose,” the statement concluded. “Let us never forget that our strength lies in our unity, shared heritage, and destiny.”
The press statement has been received as a hopeful signpost for a state that, in recent times, has been deeply polarized by political rivalries. Analysts suggest that with the elders’ backing and presidential intervention, the Rivers peace accord may usher in a new era of cooperation and governance.
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