The All Progressives Congress (APC) has addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, revealing that quiet negotiations are underway to mend the rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking on Thursday night, January 29, on TVC News’ Beyond the Headlines, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, disclosed that high-level “back-channel” engagements are being employed to stabilise the situation in the state. He noted that while public attention remains fixed on court cases and political exchanges, critical efforts to resolve the crisis are taking place behind the scenes.
Basiru was responding to concerns about the perceived silence of the APC national leadership as Governor Fubara—now regarded as aligned with the APC—faces impeachment threats and legal battles.
He emphasised that effective political negotiations are seldom conducted through press statements, explaining that many crucial decisions are reached discreetly rather than in the public eye. Describing politicians as “nocturnal animals,” Basiru suggested that meaningful dialogue often happens quietly.
The APC national secretary assured that the party is working toward a peaceful resolution that would produce “no victor and no vanquished,” stressing that reconciliation is essential for stability in Rivers State.
Although Wike remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Basiru described him as a major political stakeholder and a strong supporter of President Bola Tinubu. He confirmed that the FCT minister is actively being engaged, noting that Rivers State is vital to the success of the President’s agenda and that Wike’s cooperation is key to restoring harmony.
Basiru also revealed that tensions between the APC leadership and Wike, which followed earlier public disagreements, have subsided, adding that attention is now focused on broader political objectives ahead of the 2027 elections.
