PORT HARCOURT — In a stunning reversal of months of political hostility, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s second tenure is “guaranteed”. The declaration, made during a recent interview with Channels Television, signals a potential end to the bitter feud that has rocked Rivers State’s political foundations.
The Minister’s endorsement is tied directly to the Governor’s commitment to completing the Port Harcourt Ring Road, a 50.15-kilometre legacy project. Wike stated that by delivering this massive infrastructure, Fubara has proven his dedication to the “New Rivers Vision,” rendering his 2027 ticket effectively unchallenged.
The “My Oga” Project Peace Deal
Speaking after a recent inspection of the project on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Governor Fubara openly referred to the FCT Minister as “my Oga” for the first time since their rift began. He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to complete the N195 billion project by October 2026.
- Recognition of Vision: Fubara credited the project’s conception entirely to Wike, describing him as a man of “very big ambition”.
- The Agreement: The Governor emphasized that completing the road is a matter of personal and administrative responsibility, stating, “He [Wike] believed that if I achieved this project in record time, Rivers people would be happy with me”.
- October Deadline: Despite previous delays and funding challenges, the Governor assured that steady funding would be provided to Julius Berger Nigeria PLC to meet the delivery date.
A “Case Settled” for 2027?
The development has been hailed by many as the definitive “peace deal” the state has long awaited. Alvin Idamieibi Igoni Benstowe, a prominent Rivers citizen and commentator, described the situation as “case settled”. He noted that Wike’s verbal guarantee of a second term effectively puts an end to previous threats regarding the Governor’s political future.
While some political factions—the so-called “Rainbow supporters”—may view the reconciliation with skepticism, the prevailing sentiment in Port Harcourt is one of relief. The truce suggests that as long as the “Agreement is Agreement” remains intact, the state can pivot from political gridlock to focused development.
