Wike Says Politics Is ‘Not a Sin’ as Fubara Rejoins Rivers Political Family

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From Political Rift to Reconciliation

What began as one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political disputes shortly after Siminalayi Fubara became Governor of Rivers State has now taken a different direction following fresh remarks from Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, the former Rivers governor described Fubara’s decision to reconnect with the political structure that supported his emergence as a natural development, insisting that political reconciliation should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.

The Bigger Political Context

The prolonged disagreement between Wike and Fubara reshaped the political landscape in Rivers State, influencing relations within the Rivers State House of Assembly and creating divisions among political stakeholders.

Against that backdrop, recent indications of renewed cooperation carry significance beyond the two political figures themselves. The reconciliation could influence party unity, governance within the state and political calculations ahead of future elections.

‘Politics Is Not a Sin’

Responding to questions from journalists after inspecting ongoing projects in the Federal Capital Territory, Wike rejected suggestions that Fubara’s return amounted to seeking forgiveness.

“I don’t know what you mean by sin. In politics, there is no sin. If someone realises they made a mistake and decides to correct it, there is nothing wrong with that.”

The minister maintained that politics should remain focused on practical decisions rather than personal grievances, adding that recognising a wrong political direction and choosing another path should not attract criticism.

He also recalled that during an earlier media engagement, he had predicted the governor would eventually return to the political family that backed his election.

According to Wike, Fubara’s reported public declaration only confirmed that expectation.

Reconciliation Beyond Personal Interests

Beyond welcoming the governor back, Wike argued that renewed cooperation among members of the political family would provide a stronger platform for governance and collective political engagement.

He said every member willing to work together remained welcome, stressing that unity offered greater benefits than continued internal divisions.

The minister also linked the reconciliation to preparations for the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that a united political structure would strengthen support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election effort in Rivers State.

Infrastructure Inspection Shifts Focus to Governance

While the reconciliation dominated political discussions, Wike’s visit was officially centred on reviewing major infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory.

During the inspection, he expressed satisfaction with work on the ISEX Road Corridor and the Apo-Karshi Road, describing both projects as strategic investments expected to improve transportation, expand urban development and stimulate economic activity.

The minister disclosed that contractors had assured the administration of substantial progress before the planned commissioning later in the year, provided budgeted funds are released as expected.

Continuity as an Administrative Principle

Reflecting on project delivery, Wike defended the administration’s policy of completing inherited infrastructure rather than abandoning them because of political transitions.

He noted that several projects initiated before the current administration remained valuable to the capital’s development and deserved completion regardless of who originally approved them.

According to the minister, effective leadership is measured by continuity, prudent use of public resources and commitment to projects that improve citizens’ daily lives.

Political Implications

Although the reconciliation appears to ease months of political tension, its broader impact will likely depend on how key stakeholders within Rivers State respond in the coming months.

For observers, the development may influence future political alignments, strengthen internal cooperation within the political camp and shape early conversations surrounding the 2027 electoral cycle, while governance and infrastructure delivery remain under public scrutiny.

Do you believe the reconciliation between Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara will bring lasting political stability to Rivers State, or is it only a temporary truce? Share your opinion in the comments.