In a significant development amid the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the State House, marks the first public engagement between the two leaders since the federal government's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State earlier this year.
On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing "intense political instability" and "crisis" that had "paralysed governance" and "threatened national stability." This action led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state's House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state's affairs during this period.
The suspension and appointment have been met with criticism from various quarters, including the Nigerian Bar Association and several state governments, who argue that the president's actions may be unconstitutional. Seven state governments, led by governors from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court challenging the suspension of elected officials and the imposition of a sole administrator.
Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has defended the president's decision, suggesting that the declaration of a state of emergency may have prevented the impeachment of Governor Fubara by the state assembly, which had already served a notice of alleged misconduct against him and his deputy.
The recent meeting between President Tinubu and Governor Fubara is seen by political analysts as a potential step towards resolving the crisis in Rivers State. While details of their discussions remain undisclosed, the engagement indicates ongoing efforts to address the political impasse and restore democratic governance in the state.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and observers continue to monitor developments closely, anticipating further actions that may influence the political landscape in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
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