Wike Speaks as Tinubu Restores Fubara as Rivers Governor

• FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to the restoration of the democratically elected officials in Rivers state
• The state governor and all legislators were suspended by the president of the federation six months ago
• At the time, President Bola Tinubu appointed a sole administrator to pilot the affairs of the state in the absence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara

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Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering politics, election, and governance in Nigeria and Africa.

FCT, Abuja - Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, hailed President Bola Tinubu for restoring democratic governance to Rivers by lifting the emergency rule imposed on the state.

The minister, who said the president has once again demonstrated his total commitment to peace and sustenance of democracy in the country, stated that the Nigerian leader's proactive action saved the state.

Legit.ng previously reported that President Tinubu, on March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in Rivers following a prolonged feud between Wike, the immediate past governor of the state, and his successor, Fubara.

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During the period of the emergency rule, Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the state house of assembly were suspended from office, while Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) was appointed sole administrator for six months. With the measure ending on Wednesday, September 17, the suspended public officials have now been reinstated by President Tinubu.

Tinubu, in a nationwide address on Wednesday, September 17, recalled that he declared the emergency rule after a political crisis engulfed Rivers state, pitting the governor against 27 members of the assembly loyal to the speaker, while only four lawmakers backed Fubara.

He noted that the crisis rendered governance impossible and left critical economic assets such as oil pipelines vulnerable to vandalism.

Rivers: Wike pleased with Tinubu

Reacting through a statement by Lere Olayinka, his senior special assistant on public communications and social media, the FCT minister acknowledged that the president’s intervention has further restored the confidence of the people of Rivers state in his (Tinubu's) leadership.

He commended the people of the state for their belief in the president and continuous support for him in 'his tireless efforts' to return the country to the path of progress and development.

Wike called on all stakeholders to work together harmoniously in the collective interest of Rivers state and its people.

The minister cautioned troublemakers, especially fifth columnists who are always seeking to benefit from the crisis, to stay away from the state.

He added:

"From Rivers state going forward, the only news that will emanate will be that of peace, progress and development."

Fubara’s hold on power shaky - Analyst

Reacting, political analyst, Dr. Toks Oguntuga, said Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, political survival remains uncertain.

“Two years remain of his first term, yet already he totters on the brink of political emasculation,” Dr. Oguntuga told Legit.ng.

He argued that Fubara underestimated the consequences of challenging his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike.

“In truth, Governor Fubara did not weigh the colossal cost before daring to cross swords with his tenacious godfather,” he said.

Dr. Oguntuga further described the governor’s predicament in vivid terms.

“And now, the vultures circle. One can only wish Fubara good luck,” he added.

Tonye Cole speaks on Fubara's return

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the 2023 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers state, Tonye Cole, said Fubara would have ‘zero’ powers when his suspension is lifted.

According to him, Fubara would find himself in a difficult situation. The APC chieftain stated that Fubara would not be able to make any decision as a governor without interference.

Editorial assistant Ololade Olatimehin provided exclusive commentary from a political analyst for this report.

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Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.