Port Harcourt, Rivers State – September 14, 2025 – The long-awaited return of suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has been confirmed, signaling the end of a tumultuous six-month period of emergency rule in the state. The emergency declaration, imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 16, 2025, followed a protracted political crisis that saw Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly suspended from their duties. In their place, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), was appointed as the state administrator to oversee governance during the turbulent period.
As the emergency rule draws to a close this week, close aides to Governor Fubara have revealed that he is expected to return to Port Harcourt before the weekend, marking the restoration of democratic governance in one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states. “As I speak with you, the governor is not back. All those pictures you see on social media are old. But he may come in today (Saturday) or tomorrow (Sunday),” a senior aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed to journalists on Friday.
The announcement of Fubara’s imminent return has sparked a flurry of reactions across Rivers State, with stakeholders expressing a mix of hope, skepticism, and concern about the state’s political and economic future. To mark the transition back to democratic governance, the state government has planned an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt, as confirmed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Ibibia Worika. The event is expected to draw religious leaders, traditional rulers, and political figures from across the state, symbolizing unity and a fresh start after months of uncertainty.
The Genesis of the Crisis
The emergency rule in Rivers State was precipitated by a high-stakes political feud between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The rift, which began shortly after Fubara assumed office in May 2023, centered on control of the state’s political machinery and resources. Wike, a towering figure in Rivers State politics and a key player in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), had reportedly handpicked Fubara as his successor, expecting to maintain significant influence over the state’s governance.
However, tensions escalated as Fubara sought to assert his independence, leading to a power struggle that destabilized the state. The conflict reached a boiling point in early 2025, with clashes between supporters of both leaders, defections in the State House of Assembly, and allegations of financial mismanagement and political sabotage. The situation deteriorated to the point where President Tinubu, citing the need to restore order and prevent further violence, declared a state of emergency, effectively suspending Fubara and his administration.
The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as state administrator was seen as a neutral move to stabilize Rivers State, given his military background and lack of direct ties to the feuding factions. Over the past six months, Ibas has overseen the state’s affairs, focusing on maintaining law and order, continuing critical infrastructure projects, and mediating between rival political groups. However, his tenure has not been without criticism, with some residents accusing the administration of being disconnected from the grassroots and overly focused on maintaining the status quo.
Fubara’s Return: A New Chapter or a Weakened Mandate?
As Rivers State prepares for Fubara’s return, opinions are divided on what his comeback means for the state’s political landscape. For some, the governor’s absence has significantly weakened his political standing, leaving him vulnerable to the influence of Wike and his allies. High Chief Sunny Chukumele, convener of the Coalition of Rivers State Leaders of Thought, described the past six months as a period of “capture” for the state. “The state is captured. That is my position. We will only get back to where we were before the liberation; and now it is back to Egypt. Rivers State has been successfully captured. The future of the state would be determined by the people of the state going forward,” Chukumele said in an interview with local media.
Chukumele’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among some elders and opinion leaders who believe that Fubara’s suspension has allowed Wike to consolidate his grip on the state’s political structures. Wike, a seasoned politician known for his strategic maneuvering, has maintained a strong network of loyalists in Rivers State, including key figures in the PDP, local government officials, and traditional rulers. His influence as the FCT Minister has also given him a platform to project power beyond Rivers State, further amplifying his dominance.
Elder statesman Asukewe Iko-Awaji echoed Chukumele’s concerns, arguing that Fubara’s absence has had a devastating impact on both the state’s political unity and its economy. “The man has been away from office for six months. Some of the companies working in the state have pulled out, and it will take another six months to put himself together to bring back these companies,” Iko-Awaji noted. He pointed to the exodus of businesses, particularly in the oil and gas sector, as evidence of the economic toll of the crisis. Rivers State, a major hub for Nigeria’s oil industry, relies heavily on investments from multinational corporations, and any perception of instability can have far-reaching consequences.
However, not all perspectives are pessimistic. Former senator and Wike ally, Olaka Wogu, offered a different view, arguing that the crisis was primarily about control of political structures rather than financial gain. “The fact is that the man fought for his structure and kept it. The governor is part of the structure,” Wogu said, suggesting that Fubara’s return could still position him as a key player within Wike’s political framework. Wogu’s comments hint at a possible reconciliation or pragmatic arrangement between the two leaders, though such an outcome remains speculative.
Economic and Social Impacts of the Emergency Rule
The six-month emergency rule has left an indelible mark on Rivers State, with ripple effects felt across its economy, social fabric, and governance structures. The suspension of the State House of Assembly disrupted legislative processes, delaying the passage of critical bills and budgets. This, in turn, affected the implementation of development projects, including road construction, healthcare reforms, and education initiatives that were part of Fubara’s original agenda.
The economic fallout has been particularly stark in the private sector. Rivers State, home to Port Harcourt, one of Nigeria’s most important commercial cities, has long been a magnet for investors in the oil, gas, and maritime industries. However, the political uncertainty triggered by the Fubara-Wike feud and the subsequent emergency rule led to a slowdown in business activities. Several companies, wary of the instability, reportedly scaled back operations or relocated to neighboring states like Lagos and Akwa Ibom. The departure of these firms has resulted in job losses and reduced revenue for the state, exacerbating economic challenges for residents.
On the social front, the crisis has deepened divisions among Rivers State’s diverse ethnic groups, including the Ikwerre, Ogoni, and Ijaw communities. Political alignments have often followed ethnic lines, with some groups rallying behind Fubara as a symbol of resistance against Wike’s perceived dominance, while others remain loyal to Wike’s camp. The polarization has fueled tensions at the grassroots level, with reports of sporadic clashes between rival supporters in rural areas.
The emergency rule also strained the state’s security apparatus. While Vice Admiral Ibas’s administration prioritized maintaining law and order, incidents of political violence and cult-related activities persisted in some parts of the state. Security experts have warned that the return of democratic governance could reignite these tensions if not carefully managed.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities for Fubara
As Governor Fubara prepares to resume office, he faces a daunting set of challenges. First and foremost, he must rebuild public confidence in his leadership, which has been undermined by his prolonged absence and the perception of political weakness. Restoring trust will require a delicate balancing act: asserting his authority as governor while navigating the complex dynamics of his relationship with Wike.
One of Fubara’s immediate priorities will be to address the economic fallout from the crisis. This includes wooing back investors and revitalizing key sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, and tourism. The governor’s administration had previously outlined ambitious plans for infrastructure development, including the completion of the Port Harcourt Ring Road and the modernization of healthcare facilities. Restarting these projects could help stimulate economic growth and demonstrate Fubara’s commitment to delivering tangible results.
Politically, Fubara will need to mend fences with key stakeholders, including members of the State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, and civil society groups. The suspension of the Assembly has left a vacuum in legislative governance, and Fubara will need to work quickly to restore its functionality. This may involve negotiating with lawmakers who have aligned with Wike, a task that could prove challenging given the deep-seated loyalties in the state’s political landscape.
The inter-denominational thanksgiving service planned for this weekend could serve as a symbolic starting point for Fubara’s efforts to unify the state. By bringing together religious leaders and community figures, the event offers an opportunity to project an image of reconciliation and collective purpose. However, its success will depend on the governor’s ability to rally support from diverse groups and avoid being overshadowed by Wike’s influence.
Wike’s Enduring Influence
No discussion of Rivers State’s political future can ignore the towering presence of Nyesom Wike. As the FCT Minister, Wike has maintained a high profile on the national stage, leveraging his position to strengthen his political base in Rivers State. His allies control significant portions of the state’s political machinery, including local government councils and PDP structures, giving him a formidable advantage over Fubara.
Wike’s supporters argue that his influence is a stabilizing force, ensuring continuity and preventing the state from descending into chaos. Critics, however, view his dominance as a threat to democratic governance, accusing him of undermining Fubara’s authority and prioritizing personal interests over the state’s welfare. The tension between these perspectives will likely shape the dynamics of Fubara’s second tenure.
One potential flashpoint is the 2027 governorship election, which is already looming large in Rivers State’s political discourse. While Fubara’s current term extends beyond 2027, speculation is rife about whether he will seek re-election or face opposition from Wike’s camp. Political analysts suggest that the next two years will be critical for Fubara to consolidate his own base and carve out a distinct identity separate from his predecessor.
The Role of the Federal Government
President Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule was a bold move that drew both praise and criticism. Supporters argued that it was necessary to prevent Rivers State from descending into anarchy, while detractors accused the president of taking sides in a local power struggle. With the emergency rule now ending, Tinubu’s administration will be closely watched to see how it navigates the delicate balance between supporting Fubara’s return and managing Wike’s influence as a key ally in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The federal government’s role will also be crucial in addressing the economic challenges facing Rivers State. Investments in infrastructure, security, and job creation could help stabilize the state and reduce the risk of renewed unrest. Additionally, Tinubu’s administration may need to mediate between Fubara and Wike to prevent a recurrence of the crisis that led to the emergency rule.
Voices from the Grassroots
Beyond the political elite, ordinary residents of Rivers State are eager for stability and progress. Market traders, civil servants, and youth groups have expressed frustration with the disruptions caused by the crisis. “We just want peace and development,” said Blessing Amadi, a trader in Port Harcourt’s Mile 1 Market. “The fighting between big men is affecting our businesses and our children’s future.”
Youth unemployment, a longstanding issue in Rivers State, has worsened during the emergency rule, with many young people expressing disillusionment with the political class. Community leaders have called on Fubara to prioritize job creation and skills development programs to address these concerns.
Looking Forward: A Test of Leadership
As Rivers State stands at a crossroads, the return of Governor Fubara represents both a challenge and an opportunity. His ability to navigate the complex political terrain, rebuild the economy, and restore public trust will determine the trajectory of his administration. For the people of Rivers State, the hope is that the end of emergency rule marks the beginning of a new era of stability, unity, and progress.
The inter-denominational thanksgiving service this weekend will serve as a symbolic milestone, but the real work begins afterward. Whether Fubara can rise above the shadow of his predecessor and chart a new course for Rivers State remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on Port Harcourt as the state prepares to welcome back its governor and embark on the next chapter of its history.
