Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State, along with his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and the 32-member House of Assembly, is expected to resume office on September 18, barring any unexpected developments.
This comes after a significant closed-door meeting between the President and the Sole Administrator, where directives were issued for a comprehensive handover of the administration following a six-month emergency rule.
Reports suggest that Fubara’s reinstatement is contingent upon adhering to strict conditions outlined during the recent discussions. Sources indicate that he has agreed to serve out his current term and will not seek re-election in 2027. Additionally, Fubara has accepted the leadership of former Governor Nyesom Wike and agreed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will have the authority to nominate candidates for all local government elections within the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Further stipulations require Fubara to address all outstanding allowances and entitlements owed to the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers who were previously suspended from the Assembly. In exchange, these legislators are expected to support Fubara’s governance, ensuring a collaborative environment to facilitate the completion of his term.
This development follows a Supreme Court ruling on February 28, 2025, which upheld the legitimacy of the 27 lawmakers, asserting that a functioning government cannot exist without a complete legislative body. The court emphasized that any collapse of the legislature would lead to despotic governance.
The declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, by President Tinubu was a response to the political turmoil in Rivers State, which has hindered the citizens’ access to essential democratic benefits.
As the six-month emergency period concludes on September 18, the path is set for Fubara and his administration to resume their roles, aiming to restore stability and governance in the state.
