…says he, Wike ‘working together’ after six-month suspension
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State on Monday reaffirmed that political stability has returned to the state, days after President Bola Tinubu lifted the six-month emergency rule that suspended his administration.
Speaking with State House correspondents after a meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Fubara said the political crisis that rocked Rivers had been resolved, stressing that he and his political benefactor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, are now working together.
“As far as I’m concerned, we have made peace. Fubara and his principal are working together,” the governor declared when asked if the peace was genuine or merely cosmetic.
Fubara explained that his visit was primarily to appreciate President Tinubu for his role in restoring peace and guiding reconciliation among Rivers stakeholders.
“You’re aware that suspension was lifted midnight September 17, and I came in on the 19th. Ideally, it’s proper for me to see Mr. President and tell him that I’m back and have resumed my responsibility as Governor of Rivers State. It’s a father-son discussion — thanking him and seeking guidance to avoid any future crisis,” he said.
READ ALSO: Rivers Gov Fubara Arrives Presidential Villa to Meet Tinubu
The governor’s visit marks his first official trip to the Villa since his reinstatement, following months of turmoil that split the state’s political structure between him and Wike.
The crisis, which escalated shortly after Fubara assumed office in May 2023, led to clashes within the Rivers State House of Assembly and forced President Tinubu to suspend the governor, his deputy, and lawmakers on March 18, 2025. Retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as the state administrator during the emergency rule.
In June, Tinubu brokered peace between Fubara, Wike, Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and other key actors. That reconciliation paved the way for the President’s September 17 announcement formally ending the emergency rule.
Fubara, who has repeatedly expressed gratitude to the President, again praised Tinubu on Monday for ensuring Rivers is back on track. “We have regained peace and are moving forward,” he said.