Governor Fubara Addresses Wike as 'My Oga' in Public Statement
In a significant development in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara publicly addressed his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, as "my Oga" for the first time. This occurred on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, following a conciliatory meeting brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. The gesture marks a notable shift in the previously strained relationship between the two political figures.
Commitment to Port Harcourt Ring Road Project
Governor Fubara made these remarks while inspecting the 50km Port Harcourt Ring Road project, a strategic infrastructure initiative originally conceived by Wike during his tenure as governor. Fubara reaffirmed his dedication to delivering the project, emphasizing its importance for the state's development. He stated, "This project is very important considering the person who conceived it, my Oga, the Honourable Minister. He had a very big vision. He believed that if I achieved this project in record time, people would be happy with me."
Contractor Assures October Completion
The governor disclosed that Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, the contractor handling the project, has assured him of completion by October 2026, provided that funding remains consistent. Fubara added, "They are still assuring us that by October, they will deliver the project. What they need is the funds, and from my own end is the push." The project spans five local government areas in Port Harcourt and is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity between industrial and residential zones, and strengthen the state's transport network.
Political Truce and Uncertain Future
Fubara's reference to Wike as "my Oga" indicates a public thaw in their tense relationship, which had deteriorated after Fubara succeeded Wike as governor in 2023. The reconciliation meeting with President Tinubu aimed to ease political tensions in the oil-rich state. After the meeting, Wike told reporters that he had directed members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to comply with the President's instructions, though details were not provided.
However, it remains unclear whether lawmakers, widely seen as loyal to Wike, will withdraw the impeachment notice earlier issued against Fubara or halt the ongoing suit at the Court of Appeal. This uncertainty casts doubt on the durability of the fragile truce.
Background of the Rivers Crisis
The political standoff between Fubara and Wike has been prolonged, stemming from Fubara's tenure as accountant-general under Wike's administration before being endorsed to succeed him. The relationship later soured, triggering disputes involving the state assembly and multiple political actors. While President Tinubu's intervention suggested a possible reconciliation, the situation remains fluid.
Recent Appointments by Governor Fubara
In related news, Governor Fubara has approved the appointments of five permanent secretaries in the state's civil service, as announced by Iningi Brown, the Rivers' Head of Service. The newly appointed permanent secretaries are Dr Wachukwu Worgu, Eke Owuma, Ogbonna Anthony, Dr Jim-Jaja Gogo, and Uzor Henry. They are scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
