Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has publicly appealed to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to seek reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. This call comes amidst escalating political tensions in Rivers State that have now culminated in impeachment proceedings against the governor.
A Plea for Humility and Reconciliation
Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, Fayose advised Governor Fubara to temper political confrontation with humility. He stressed the critical importance of acknowledging political mentorship and the support systems that bring leaders to power.
"My own position is always clear. Fubara, my governor, all of them, got their strength from other people," Fayose stated. He drew parallels with other states, specifically mentioning Kogi, where he praised the current governor's humility and cooperation with his predecessor, Yahaya Bello.
Fayose recounted his own advice to his successor in Ekiti, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, as a model: "I told my governor, whatever governor Fayemi, what I’ve done to you, or whatever way you feel, don’t worry about that. Remember the day he gave you that platform. Don’t say ill of him, cooperate with him."
The Dispute Over Leadership and the '001' Title
The former governor also waded into the contentious issue of the "001" title in Rivers politics—a symbolic reference to the state's number one citizen. Fayose cautioned Fubara against openly challenging Wike's perceived influence and political leadership.
"There’s a difference between the office and 001. What brought about the 001? Who gave you the platform to call yourself the 001?" Fayose questioned. He described it as a "sad narrative" for Governor Fubara to be seen as struggling for dominance, advising instead that he should focus on managing the situation diplomatically.
"Even if Wike is saying he is the leader, it is not to the mouth of Fubara to be contesting that. We all know the truth," he added, making a direct appeal: "Please governor Fubara, I’m begging you, go and make amends and be at peace."
Impeachment Threats and Regional Intervention
Fayose's remarks are set against a backdrop of severe political instability in Rivers State. Twenty-seven lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, last Thursday.
The lawmakers cited several allegations, including:
- The demolition of the State Assembly complex.
- Engaging in extra-budgetary spending.
- Defiance of a Supreme Court ruling on legislative autonomy.
It is noteworthy that Governor Fubara has not yet received formal notice of these proceedings. Furthermore, two pro-Wike lawmakers have since called for the impeachment move to be suspended, indicating internal divisions within the assembly.
The crisis has grown so concerning that it has prompted intervention from the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF). The forum has established a seven-member reconciliation committee, chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).
In a statement jointly signed by King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Obong Victor Attah, and PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the forum described the situation as "disturbing." They appealed for all parties to pursue dialogue, warning that the crisis threatens the socio-political stability of the state and the wider Niger Delta region.
The forum urged all stakeholders to "place paramount importance on peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers State," calling for an end to personal rivalry in favour of governance and progress.
