Tinubu Sets Conditions For Fubara’s Reinstatement

Three months after President Bola Tinubu suspended Siminalayi Fubara as Governor of Rivers State, he is now prepared to reinstate him, though under certain conditions

The Port City News reported that Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state on 18 March, suspending Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the State Assembly.

In a move to resolve the political turmoil, Tinubu convened a crucial meeting on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting was attended by Fubara, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, other lawmakers, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Sources revealed that the resolution from the meeting included Fubara’s reinstatement, but with the caveat that he will not contest for a second term in the 2027 elections.

Also see: Tinubu Hosts Reconciliation Talks to Calm Rivers State Tensions

The arrangement is said to be aimed at restoring democratic stability in the state, allowing Fubara to complete his current four-year tenure.

As part of the negotiated terms, Wike will reportedly have the authority to nominate all chairpersons across the 23 local government areas in the state.

Additionally, Fubara has agreed to settle all outstanding allowances and entitlements owed to the 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike, who had previously been suspended from the State Assembly.

In return, the lawmakers will refrain from initiating any impeachment proceedings against the governor.

It is worth noting that despite their suspension, Amaewhule and his loyalists defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the political standoff, yet continued to assert their legislative positions.

Following the peace talks, this newspaper reported that Wike said both factions agreed to set aside their differences and collaborate for the progress of the state.