Following the recent developments over the meeting between the suspended Rivers State Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the International Human Rights Commission – IHRC Corporation in Nigeria, expresses cautious optimism in the prolonged political impasse in Rivers State, Nigeria, as both parties have agreed to a peace arrangement facilitated by a former and incumbent Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba, and Dapo Abiodun respectively.

Notably, the IHRC Corporation in Nigeria issued an official statement on Thursday, 20 March 2025, calling on Nigerians, especially the good people of Rivers State, to prioritize a peaceful resolution within the six-month window of the state of emergency over political rivalries.

In this regard, IHRC commends the reported meeting between suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, viewing it as a positive step towards reconciliation and stability.

The political tension that has gripped Rivers State for months has had significant implications for governance, public trust, and socio-economic development. The IHRC has continuously monitored the situation, advocating for dialogue, the rule of law, and the protection of democratic institutions.

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on March 18 declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State. The declaration came in response to the near-total collapse of governance, threats to critical federal infrastructure, and a growing risk of widespread unrest.

The President further suspended key elected officials, including Governor Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly, and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator to restore order and stability.

IHRC Country Representative Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, noted that: “While this meeting does not signify an immediate end to the crisis, it signals a willingness by key actors to engage in constructive dialogue. This is a necessary precursor to any sustainable resolution.”

The IHRC urges all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and the media, to support ongoing efforts at peace-building and to refrain from actions or rhetoric that could undermine unity. The Commission further encourages the federal government and relevant institutions to facilitate and mediate where necessary to safeguard democratic governance in the state.

Similarly, in an earlier weekly report by the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission, Acting State Coordinator in Rivers State, Comrade Sundrix Ogor, praised the renewed dialogue between the two political figures as a crucial step towards reconciliation and peace.

The report emphasized that the recent meeting in Abuja—where Governor Fubara visited Minister Wike alongside two sitting governors and a respected elder statesman—demonstrates a positive move towards ending the protracted crisis that had disrupted governance and posed significant human rights concerns.

As developments unfold, the IHRC remains committed to its role in promoting peace, human rights, and democratic values across Nigeria and the broader region.

Reported by:
Signed:

Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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