Since December 2023, the rift between suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has taken a drastic turn, resulting in the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and lawmakers.
Ever since the two became politically estranged, Rivers State has witnessed significant tensions, ranging from the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA), impeachment attempts, attacks on Local Government Secretariats, to widespread protests.
In March, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, accompanied by the suspension of Fubara.
This move was seconded by the Senate and the House of Representatives through a voice vote.
The declaration of the state of emergency is set to last for six months, with a sole administrator appointed to run the affairs of Rivers State. Vice Admiral Ebok-Ete Ibas currently holds that position.
Read Also: Vice Admiral Ibas Attends First NEC Meeting
Despite numerous protests calling for the reinstatement of suspended Governor Fubara and elected officials, the state remains under the rule of the sole administrator.
During a peaceful demonstration at the state capital, Port Harcourt, on 7 April 2025, protesters were met with police aggression, leading to the assault of several individuals, including Channels TV reporter Charles Opurum, who was covering the event.
Following the attack, the Rivers State Police Command visited the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to pledge their solidarity after demands for an apology were made.
The ongoing political rift between the ‘godfather’ and his ‘son’ has drawn widespread criticism from residents, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Many argue that the situation does not warrant a declaration of a state of emergency or the suspension of an elected governor and officials.
The NBA condemned the federal government’s action, stating it violates Section 305 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which outlines strict conditions for emergency rule.
According to the NBA, the constitution does not grant the president the power to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or members of a state legislature under the guise of emergency rule.
As both men and women protest, many express their frustration that the suspension of their elected governor has put their lives on hold and hindered growth.
They describe the administration of Vice Admiral Ibas as an injustice to the state and a violation of democratic principles.
The Tinubu-led administration has turned blind eyes and deaf ears to the pleas of Rivers State residents, while businesses have stagnated and daily life has been disrupted.
There is growing concern that the people of Rivers State are effectively being held hostage, waiting for the sole administration’s term to end.
Wike has been seen as the central figure in the ongoing political feud, with many interpreting his actions as driven by anger toward Fubara.
The people of Rivers State are eagerly awaiting the restoration of democracy and the reinstatement of their elected governor and other officials.
The Tinubu administration and Nyesom Wike must prioritize democratic values over personal interests.
Local communities, the judiciary, civil society organizations, the NBA, and the international community must continue to advocate for the protection and strengthening of democracy, which forms the foundation of the Nigerian nation.
Nigerian citizens must persist in upholding the core principles of democracy, as every voice matters.
