By Francis Dufugha
Governor Fubara’s invitation to the pro-Wike lawmakers comes after months of political tension that saw the state legislature split into factions, legal battles over defections, and executive-legislative hostilities that threatened governance. The lawmakers, who had earlier decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in alignment with Wike, have remained a thorn in Fubara’s administration. By extending an invitation, Fubara appears to be prioritizing reconciliation, but the underlying implications suggest a more calculated move.
For one, the governor understands the importance of stabilizing the political environment if he is to focus on governance. Since assuming office, his administration has been overshadowed by the lingering influence of Wike, whose strong political network has made it difficult for Fubara to fully assert his authority. By reaching out, Fubara may be attempting to neutralize tensions and bring governance back to the fore.
However, skeptics argue that the invitation is a sign of weakness rather than strength. Having been unable to secure total control over the state’s legislature, some believe Fubara is bowing to pressure to seek a truce on terms that may not necessarily favor his long-term political survival. This is particularly crucial given that pro-Wike forces still wield significant influence at the federal level through Wike’s position as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
One of the biggest concerns is whether any form of reconciliation will be genuine and lasting. The deep-seated acrimony between Fubara and Wike’s camp is not just about legislative disagreements but about the control of political structures ahead of the next electoral cycle. While Fubara’s invitation may momentarily ease tensions, it is unlikely to erase the fundamental struggle for supremacy within Rivers State politics.
Moreover, the role of external influences—particularly from the APC-controlled federal government—cannot be ignored. If Fubara hopes to assert himself, he must ensure that any reconciliation does not leave him politically vulnerable. This means securing a deal that strengthens his grip on the state rather than making him subservient to forces that could undermine his authority.
Beyond the politics, the prolonged power struggle has had dire consequences for governance in Rivers State. The state has witnessed disruptions in legislative activities, delays in policy implementation, and a general sense of instability. Investors and businesses thrive on predictability, and the ongoing political uncertainty does little to instill confidence.
Fubara’s move, if managed well, could mark the beginning of a return to normalcy. If he can successfully broker a working relationship with the legislature without compromising his authority, it would allow his administration to focus on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Rivers State.
However, if the invitation is merely a facade without a well-thought-out strategy, it could backfire, leading to further political hostilities and governance stagnation.
Governor Fubara’s invitation to pro-Wike lawmakers is a significant political development, but whether it will lead to genuine reconciliation or merely postpone an inevitable showdown remains to be seen. The coming weeks will determine if this move is a masterstroke or a miscalculation. What is clear, however, is that Rivers State needs stability, and all political actors must put governance above personal interests.
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