Breaking News: Tinubu Ends Rivers State Emergency Rule, Fubara Returns as Nigeria’s Most Powerless Governor
By Gambo Jagindi
September 17, 2025
President Bola Tinubu has announced that the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State will conclude at midnight tonight, paving the way for Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s return to office tomorrow, Thursday, September 18, 2025. This development follows a crucial reconciliation meeting brokered by Tinubu between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The meeting, which included Rivers State lawmakers, is seen as a pivotal attempt to restore stability in the oil-rich state beset by political turmoil.
Critics contend that Fubara’s return might position him as one of Nigeria’s most powerless governors, arguing key governance structures are no longer under his control. Local government chairmen were elected during his absence, and political party dynamics were reshaped without his direct involvement. Moreover, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who served as sole administrator during the emergency rule, made significant decisions impacting Rivers State’s trajectory. These developments have fueled speculation about Fubara’s capacity to assert effective leadership in the coming years.
Several significant changes unfolded in Rivers State without Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s direct involvement, sparking concerns about his authority upon return. Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas, appointed as sole administrator during the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu, made notable decisions. These include substantial spending allocations – N24 billion for CCTV, N30 billion for gunboats, and N23 billion for contingencies – which have raised eyebrows among observers. Such moves might have reshaped the state’s governance landscape, potentially curtailing Fubara’s influence .
The Rivers State House of Assembly is poised to resume operations with possibly amplified clout, which could overshadow Fubara’s executive powers. This dynamic, coupled with appointments made during the emergency period, fuels speculation that Fubara might encounter considerable hurdles in asserting his authority over the next two years. Powerful figures like Nyesom Wike, Fubara’s predecessor now serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, are likely to wield significant influence. Wike’s role in Rivers State’s politics has been pivotal, contributing to the tensions leading to the emergency rule declared by President Tinubu in March 2025 .
President Tinubu’s decision to end the emergency rule, effective midnight September 17, 2025, signals Fubara’s return to office. Tinubu cited improved intelligence indicating a new spirit of cooperation among stakeholders as the basis for lifting the emergency measures. However, critics argue Fubara’s position might be tenuous given the restructured political terrain. The local government elections held August 30, 2025, saw APC winning 16 chairmanship seats and PDP securing 3, reflecting complex political realignments. As Fubara resumes office tomorrow, September 18, 2025, observers are keenly watching how he’ll navigate these intricate dynamics and assert his governance agenda .
Aluta News reports that the crisis in Rivers State stemmed from a bitter power struggle between Fubara and Wike, leading to impeachment proceedings and instability that drew national attention. President Tinubu intervened, citing security concerns and constitutional breaches, and declared a state of emergency in March 2025. Tinubu’s mediation efforts appear aimed at reconciling the factions, with Wike confirming an agreement to work in unity for the state’s interest. For his part, Fubara has expressed optimism about a new beginning and lasting peace for Rivers State.
Observers are closely watching Fubara’s autonomy prospects given the appointments and changes implemented during his absence. Rivers State’s strategic economic significance in Nigeria’s oil sector underscores the importance of stability and effective governance. As Fubara prepares to resume office tomorrow, questions linger about his ability to navigate the intricate political landscape and assert his authority amid perceived constraints.