President Tinubu is reportedly set to reinstate Fubara as Rivers Governor on Independence Day amid major political deal.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that President Bola Tinubu is expected to formally reinstate Siminalayi Fubara as the executive governor of Rivers State on October 1, 2025, Nigeria’s Independence Day barring any last-minute changes.
According to an exclusive report by The Witness, the move, a major turning point in Rivers’ months-long political standoff, comes as part of a sweeping reconciliation deal negotiated at the highest levels of government. The resolution follows weeks of behind-the-scenes talks led by the Presidency to end the crisis rocking the oil-rich state.
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Sources close to the matter confirmed that Tinubu will announce the reinstatement during his Independence Day national broadcast, marking a symbolic end to the deepening feud between Fubara and his political godfather, Nyesom Wike, former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister.
High-Stakes Deal Reached
As part of the peace agreement, Fubara is expected to reconstitute his cabinet, with a number of key positions set to be filled by loyalists from Wike’s political camp. The shake-up is seen as a compromise to re-balance power and ease tensions between both factions.
The deal also includes the renomination of commissioners, advisers, and board members, proposed by both sidesfor screening by the Rivers State House of Assembly once the legislative complex, currently under reconstruction, is completed.
Importantly, all principal figures involved in the previous crisis are to be excluded from returning to key roles in the new executive council or any strategic position; a clause reportedly insisted upon by Fubara to maintain neutrality and prevent further division.
Assembly Complex, LG Elections Key to Peace Plan
Another condition tied to the reinstatement is the expedited completion of the rebuilt House of Assembly complex. Sources say that the facility’s readiness is central to resuming full legislative operations and legitimizing the reinstatement process.
Additionally, local government elections and the formal inauguration of new LG chairmen are to be concluded before Fubara resumes full executive powers.
Internal Lobbying Intensifies
Within Fubara’s loyal base, known as the “Simplified Movement,” intense lobbying has reportedly begun over slots in the incoming cabinet, with various factions pushing for strategic inclusion in the new power arrangement.
Background: A Crisis That Shook the State
The bitter rivalry between Governor Fubara and Wike erupted over control of the political structure in Rivers. While Wike attempted to retain influence after his tenure, Fubara resisted, asserting his mandate as the state’s elected leader.
The fallout led to legislative chaos, an attempted impeachment, and the eventual intervention of President Tinubu. On March 18, the President declared a state of emergency in Rivers, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire State Assembly for six months. Retired naval chief Ibok-Ette Ibas was appointed as interim administrator.
By October 1, Fubara’s six-month suspension will lapse, paving the way for a fresh start under new political terms.
