Port Harcourt, Rivers State - A clandestine meeting in London between President Bola Tinubu and Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara has ignited speculation about the governor's political future, particularly regarding a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This development comes amidst the recently declared State of Emergency in Rivers State, aimed at quelling the ongoing political turmoil.
According to a report by Africa Report, the London meeting, which occurred during President Tinubu's recent visit, was convened to explore avenues for restoring peace to the troubled oil-rich state. A presidential aide, confirming the meeting to BusinessDay, emphasized that the focus was on finding a "lasting solution" to the crisis.
BusinessDay's investigation revealed that the London rendezvous followed an earlier meeting between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers State lawmakers loyal to him, also held in the UK shortly after the State of Emergency declaration. "Yes, it was a close-door meeting in London. The President is looking beyond the six-month period set for the State of Emergency," the aide told BusinessDay. Notably, Minister Wike was reportedly absent from the Tinubu-Fubara meeting.
President Tinubu's sudden change of travel plans, which saw him depart France for London last week, fueled further intrigue. While Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga had initially announced a working visit to France on April 2nd, the shift in itinerary raised eyebrows.
Sources privy to the meeting suggest that President Tinubu is keen on facilitating a peace summit between Governor Fubara and Minister Wike, along with his political allies, to restore stability and democratic governance in Rivers State.
A yet-to-be-confirmed report, as reported by BusinessDay, indicates that Governor Fubara was offered the possibility of joining the APC as a pathway to lasting peace in the state. This proposal is reportedly tied to Minister Wike's unwavering support for President Tinubu's second-term bid and his desire for political unity in Rivers State. Wike has publicly acknowledged his support for the President during the last election, citing the importance of a southern presidency.
The question remains: will Governor Fubara, the Vice Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, consider joining the 27 PDP lawmakers who recently defected to the APC? This potential move would significantly reshape the political landscape of Rivers State.
This situation is developing, and all eyes are on the political movements of Governor Fubara.
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