In a recent interview with Arise News from 24:08, human rights activist and legal practitioner Liborous Oshoma emphasized the urgent need for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. Oshoma asserted that the growing tension between former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Governor Siminalayi Fubara could spiral out of control without decisive action from the presidency.
“If Wike were not a minister, I tell you all of these wouldn’t be happening,” Oshoma remarked, pointing out that Wike’s ministerial appointment has emboldened him. “Wike as a governor, everybody knows he will not take this from anybody.”
The feud between Wike and Fubara has drawn national attention, with both political leaders claiming legitimacy over the state’s political structure. Oshoma believes that resolving this conflict requires direct involvement from President Tinubu, alongside Wike and Fubara, in a closed-door dialogue.
“The only person that can call the parties to order is Mr. President,” Oshoma stated. “It should be Wike, Fubara, and Mr. President, just the three of them. No supporters, just the three of them. Allow both parties to ventilate, and then Mr. President can wade in to save the peace and quiet of Rivers State.”
Oshoma cautioned that without presidential intervention, the conflict could deepen, and the elders of Rivers State, who are perceived to have taken sides, may be unable to mediate effectively. “Elders of Rivers State clearly have taken sides; they will not be able to resolve this except Mr. President is willing and ready to save the crisis in Rivers State,” he warned.