Fubara is set to resume as Rivers Governor on September 18 under new restrictions.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is set to return to office on September 18, bringing an end to the six-month state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in March.
However, his reinstatement comes with strict conditions that significantly limit his control over critical areas of governance.
Shift in Political Power
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The decision follows last weekend’s local government elections, in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured 20 out of 23 council seats. Political sources disclosed that the APC’s victory shifts considerable influence to the party and forms part of the conditions attached to Fubara’s return.
Upon resumption, Fubara will have no authority over local governments or the Rivers State House of Assembly. Also, key appointments, project approvals, and major expenditures will be coordinated from Abuja to prevent renewed conflict between the governor, lawmakers, and other political stakeholders.
APC Option on the Table
Fubara has reportedly been offered the option of joining the APC, though sources said any defection must be his personal decision, not a wholesale move of his political structure.
“He will not control the local government and the Rivers State House of Assembly. This is to ensure peace,” a source explained.
“On his return, he will be handed the list of commissioners, which he must submit to the House of Assembly for approval. If he wants to join the APC, he must do so individually and fulfill all party obligations.”
The Rivers APC has pledged to work with Fubara, citing its landslide win in the local polls as a platform for collaboration. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced concerns, warning that the restrictions undermine democracy and could weaken its influence in the state.
Tinubu, Ibas Discuss Transition
Ahead of the governor’s return, President Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The meeting, which lasted over two hours, focused on security updates, transition plans, and ensuring a smooth handover.
Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, has overseen the state during the emergency, exercising both executive and legislative powers to restore order after months of political crisis, violent clashes, and legislative paralysis.
