Impeachment crisis: Rivers elders in meetings with Wike in Abuja

It has been confirmed that mediation has intensified between the Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, and his godfather, Nyesom Wike, now FCT Minister.

An authoritative voice in the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt confirmed that elders of Rivers State have been meeting with Wike in Abuja most of Tuesday.

The voice also confirmed that meetings went on all of Monday night in Port Harcourt. Fubara is also said to be in Abuja, but he is said to be attending NEC meeting. His absence at the annual general meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (Rivers/Bayelsa chapter) which he was said to have confirmed willingness to attend led to many speculations.

Port Harcourt remained calm most of Tuesday as the foot soldiers seemed to have received ceasefire signal.

Govt denies suspending N195bn Ring Road

Part of the ceasefire could be the statement from the State Government debunking earlier news that the N195bn Port Harcourt Ring Road (said to be induced by Wike even from outside government) had been suspended.

Refuting the suspension, the newly sworn in Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joe Johnson, said government’s attention has been drawn to the rumour.

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He said government wished to inform Rivers people and the general public to disregard such information as false.

“The project is for the advancement of our state and the improvement of the economy of our dear state therefore, nothing whatsoever can stop it at this stage.

“For the avoidance of doubt, 77 percent of the contract sum has been paid and the construction firm is making frantic efforts to complete the job within schedule. Please let’s be guided as we ask information and news managers to always verify their stories before going to the public space,” he said.

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Government had earlier in the day denied sacking various layers of public servants including local council chairmen (and councilors), commissioners, etc.

Many say Aso Rock had ordered a stay at status quo order, and both camps seem willing to comply.

Several groups against full fight between Wike and Fubara have continued to rejoice over the temporary ceasefire, saying a fight would not augur well for the state.