In response to criticisms over the alleged unconstitutional peace deal with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has denied signing the agreement under duress. Joe Johnson, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, defended the governor on a live appearance, asserting that Governor Fubara did not negotiate from a position of weakness during the meeting at the Presidential Villa.
“I was in that meeting, and the governor did not negotiate from the place of weakness. There was no pressure from anywhere. When people disagree, they come to the roundtable and settle,” stated Commissioner Joe Johnson during the Channels Television’s Lunchtime Politics program.
While critics questioned the authenticity of Fubara’s signature on the peace document, Johnson emphasized that Governor Fubara is committed to implementing the agreement, demonstrating his dedication to the peace process. Despite the controversy, Johnson expressed confidence in Fubara’s adherence to the terms of the agreement.
However, indications suggest that Fubara might have breached the resolution by not withdrawing the court cases against the Rivers House of Assembly, as directed in the agreement. At a court hearing, Fubara’s counsel stated that there were no instructions from the governor to withdraw the matter, leading to uncertainty regarding the governor’s commitment to the peace terms.
Meanwhile, lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike claimed to have withdrawn the impeachment notice against Governor Fubara, following the agreement endorsed by President Bola Tinubu. The political crisis in Rivers State has been marked by defections, parallel sittings, an impeachment plot, the demolition of the Assembly complex, and resignations in Fubara’s cabinet.
In an unexpected twist, PANDEF convener Edwin Clark blamed Wike for the crisis during an interview, accusing him of contradictory actions. Former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido criticized the PDP’s leadership for its perceived inaction in the Rivers crisis, questioning President Tinubu’s intervention in a PDP stronghold and urging the party to defend its interests.
The political saga continues to unfold, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the peace agreement and the potential long-term consequences for the state and the country at large.