Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State has stated that his political crisis with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, ultimately granted him the freedom to govern the state independently.

Fubara made this revelation while receiving the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Henry Ndukauba, along with bishops of the church, at the Government House in Port Harcourt. He acknowledged Ndukauba’s efforts in mediating between him and Wike to resolve the crisis.

Despite intervention attempts by President Bola Tinubu and other political stakeholders, the rift between the two leaders has persisted.

Reflecting on the situation, Fubara remarked:

“God has a way of doing things. Perhaps, if we had achieved peace earlier, I wouldn’t be enjoying the level of freedom I have today.”

He expressed gratitude to Primate Ndukauba, saying:

“I want to start by expressing my heartfelt appreciation. Many may not understand why I am thanking him. When the crisis began, as a man of God who saw both parties—myself and my predecessor—as members of his communion, he made several attempts to mediate. He made phone calls, scheduled appointments, yet none of these efforts yielded results.”

Despite the unsuccessful peace talks, Fubara maintained that the situation unfolded according to divine will:

“Maybe if we had found peace then, I wouldn’t be enjoying the freedom I have today. Sometimes, God allows turmoil to pave the way for true peace. However, this does not mean we should encourage conflict.”

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of peace for growth and development:

“Peace, both internally and externally, remains the best path forward because it fosters progress and development.”