Rivers: Secret Meeting Sparks Hopes Of Peace Deal Between Fubara, Amaewhule

While details of the discussions remain tightly guarded, the meeting marks a moment in a power struggle that has left the state fractured.

By Charles Opurum

FILES: Martins Amaewhule (L) and Siminalayi Fubara (R)

In what could signal a turning point in Rivers State’s long-running political crisis, there are strong indications that suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara may be edging toward reconciliation with his fiercest political rivals in the State Assembly.

Our sources confirm that Governor Fubara recently held a closed-door meeting with some members of the State House of Assembly—led by suspended Speaker Martin Amaewhule.

While details of the discussions remain tightly guarded, the meeting itself marks a significant moment in a power struggle that has left the state’s political landscape fractured and volatile.

Recall that Amaewhule and his faction had twice attempted to impeach the governor at the height of a bitter face-off believed to have been triggered by Fubara’s fallout with his predecessor Nyesom Wike.

The feud sent shockwaves through the state, leading to the emergence of rival factions in the Assembly. One of them was led by Edison Ehie, Fubara’s ally who rose to become Chief of Staff, followed later by Bonny lawmaker Victor Oko-Jumbo.

At the height of the conflict, the State Assembly Complex was burned and later demolished—symbolic of the collapse of legislative order in the oil-rich state.

The legal fireworks that followed were intense. Amaewhule ultimately secured a landmark Supreme Court victory affirming his status as Speaker, while also getting the governor’s local council elections nullified.

In response, the Assembly revived impeachment proceedings—until President Bola Tinubu stepped in, declaring a state of emergency and suspending all elected officials in the state.

Now, this quiet meeting—behind closed doors and away from public glare—offers the first real hint that the political stalemate may be easing. Although no formal truce has been announced, and neither camp has gone on record to confirm a deal, the meeting is being widely interpreted as a first step toward peace.

For a state critical to Nigeria’s oil economy and stability in the Niger Delta, even the slightest move toward reconciliation may be a welcome relief.

Whether this is a temporary pause or the beginning of a full-scale political reset remains to be seen.

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