The tensions which had reared its ugly head in Nigeria’s oil-rich Rivers State may be dousing weeks after political agitations and protests. President Tinubu chose to meet Fubara in London for a quiet diplomacy that could reshape the region’s leadership. This is a follow-up to his suspension on 18 March, Citizen Rapporteur can confirm.
Citizen Rapporteur gathered that two aides to the president confirmed that the meeting took place in London last week, shortly after Tinubu left Paris.
The meeting, it was learnt, was at the instance of Governor Fubara, who has passionately sought avenues to return to office since the president declared a state of emergency in oil-rich Rivers State.
Reacting to the possibility of Fubara claiming back his office soon, an adviser to the president who pleaded anonymity, said:
“It is true. Governor Fubara held a private meeting with the president last week. Fubara has promised to make some compromises. Negotiations are ongoing, but from all indications, his suspension will be lifted before the six-month deadline,”
Another presidential aide hinted that Fubara is also open to joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to ingratiate himself with the president and then obtain cover.
“If Fubara joins the APC, it means the president’s chances of winning Rivers State are much higher,” he says.
Meanwhile, our correspondent was informed that Fubara’s estranged godfather, Nyesom Wike, was not part of the meeting and was uncomfortable with such meetings taking place behind his back.
However, Tinubu is expected to broker a meeting between Fubara, Wike, and the Rivers State lawmakers to find a lasting solution to the crisis in the state.
