Rivers:If Siminalayi Fubara Is Ready to Fight Wike, Wike Can’t Come to Port Harcourt-Anabs Sara-Igbe

Elder statesman and respected Niger Delta leader, Anabs Sara-Igbe, has weighed in on the political crisis in Rivers State between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. 

Speaking during an interview on News Central TV, Sara-Igbe explained that the ongoing conflict is rooted in the struggle for control over the state’s resources.

He revealed that Governor Fubara is open to resolving the issues peacefully. However, Wike, who once held significant influence, seems unwilling to reconcile. According to Sara-Igbe, Wike’s frustrations stem from realizing he no longer has control over the state’s finances.

“Wike thought he had all the power, but recent events have shown otherwise,” Sara-Igbe said. He pointed out that Wike suffered setbacks during the local government elections and in court cases. Wike had attempted to stop funds from reaching the state through legal means, but the Court of Appeal dismissed his efforts.

Despite these challenges, Sara-Igbe urged Wike to seek peace with Fubara, his former ally. “Sim Fubara is not looking to fight Wike. He wants peace,” he emphasized. However, he warned that if Fubara decides to confront Wike, the former governor might lose his influence in Port Harcourt altogether.

Looking ahead to 2024, Sara-Igbe called on Wike to cooperate with the peace committee established by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). “This is the time for Wike to make peace, so Rivers State can focus on economic growth and progress,” he concluded.

The elder statesman’s message is clear: peace and unity are the best paths forward for Rivers State.