Rivers Political Turmoil: Lawmaker Urges Tinubu to Restore Governor Fubara

A House of Representatives member, Awaji-Inombek Abiante, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara before the six-month emergency rule expires. He also suggested that a mediation effort led by former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, could help resolve the political crisis in Rivers State.

Tinubu had declared a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, citing concerns over escalating tensions. This decision led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the state’s legislators, with retired Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas appointed as the interim administrator. The move, backed by the National Assembly, has since been met with widespread criticism from political figures, legal experts, and civil society groups.

Abiante questioned the basis for the emergency declaration, suggesting that the intelligence used to justify it may have been misleading. He pointed out that Fubara had already initiated efforts to rebuild the state assembly complex and that reported disruptions to oil pipelines had been resolved.

In response to the ongoing debate, public affairs analysts Baba Yusuf and Dayo Akintobi criticised lawmakers from opposition parties for failing to push back against the emergency rule. They argued that the suspension of elected officials undermines Nigeria’s democratic principles and sets a troubling precedent.

Abiante emphasised the need for a swift resolution, warning that extending the emergency period could heighten tensions and have broader implications for national stability. He called on the president to prioritise dialogue and democratic restoration in Rivers State.