Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has outlined the conditions necessary for any genuine reconciliation with his former political ally, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.

Speaking on Friday, April 25, during the platinum jubilee celebration of Hon. Ken Chikere in Port Harcourt, Wike addressed the ongoing political rift in the state. While expressing openness to peace, he insisted it must be rooted in sincerity and include the involvement of all key political stakeholders.

“We are men of peace, not of trouble. But it must be peace with sincerity, not peace as a decoy,” Wike stated. “Members of the State Assembly, the National Assembly, and the two major political parties must be involved.”

He also criticized the silence of elder statesmen in the state, accusing them of complicity and inaction in the face of the political crisis. Wike further condemned the use of media blackmail, warning that such tactics would not resolve the situation.

“No amount of embarrassment or blackmail can bring peace. What can bring peace is humility and a sincere commitment to the interests of the state,” he said.

In the same address, Wike dismissed rumours that he had collapsed and was flown abroad for treatment. He clarified that he had travelled overseas to attend his son’s graduation, not for medical reasons.

“I am here. I am healthy very, very well,” he affirmed. “Someone started spreading that I had collapsed. I was never sick. And even if I were, am I not a human being? Those who wish others to fall will be the ones to fall and when you fall, it will be final,” he added.

Wike’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions with Governor Fubara, whom he had strongly backed during the 2023 governorship election, but from whom he has since distanced himself following a significant fallout.