Barely 48 hours after renewed peace talks at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and suspended Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, made a rare joint public appearance at a funeral service in Rumueprikom, Wike’s hometown in Obio/Akpor LGA.
The three have been embroiled in a protracted political feud that has destabilised governance in Rivers State for nearly two years. Their presence together, without confrontation, has reignited hopes of a potential resolution to the crisis, which prompted a state of emergency declaration just three months ago.
The funeral was attended by several prominent political figures, including Senators Allwell Onyesoh, George Thompson Sekibo, and Olaka Nwogu; former Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche; former lawmaker Hon. Ken Chikere; South-South APC Vice Chairman Victor Giadom; and former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja.
Though no political remarks were made, the gathering marks a significant moment following President Bola Tinubu’s mediation efforts, suggesting a possible softening of tensions between the embattled leaders.