The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed skepticism over comments made by suspended Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, that he is unwilling to return to office because his "spirit has left."

Speaking during his monthly press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike questioned the authenticity of Fubara's claim, suggesting it might be a political strategy to gain public sympathy.

"How do I know his spirit is not there? We are politicians and we can say things to attract public sympathy. I'm not carried away by all these things. In reality, how would I know his spirit has left? I don't know," Wike stated.

Despite the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, the FCT Minister affirmed his readiness for peace, saying, "I'm open for peace."

Wike expressed concern about the sustainability of the current situation in Rivers State, pointing out that even if the state of emergency ends, the fundamental problems would persist if not properly addressed.

"Assuming now you don't settle this problem and the state of emergency ends, has the problem ended? No. Assembly will still be the same as they have been, so the crisis will still be there. They will not pass your budget and you won't get money from the federal allocation," he explained.

The minister also questioned Fubara's capacity to resolve the crisis, noting that the governor's supporters continue to demonstrate and insult people, which undermines peace efforts.

"I told him 'I don't think you have the capacity to really make this peace because it's very easy. That is why when I read what I read yesterday, I felt so bad," Wike said.

He added: "Why? If you are making peace, your people are demonstrating everyday, insulting people, how do you feel about that peace?"

The political crisis in Rivers State has intensified in recent months, with Fubara being suspended and a state of emergency declared. The situation has created significant governance challenges in the oil-rich state.

Wike, who preceded Fubara as Rivers State governor, expressed disappointment that the crisis escalated so quickly after Fubara took office.

"He doesn't need to be under this kind of situation if he had listened to people who put themselves down despite all odds and said no we will use him. Yet, you can't calm down just within 100 days in office? What kind of pushing will people push you," the minister remarked.