As Nigeria prepares for Democracy Day on June 12, pressure is mounting on President Bola Tinubu to end the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly leading the call for reinstatement, engaging Tinubu directly in private discussions.
- Fubara was suspended by Tinubu on March 18 amid a power tussle with Nyesom Wike.
- Critics argue the suspension is unconstitutional, citing Sections 305 and 188 of the Constitution.
- Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Etteh Ibas (retd.) as sole administrator of Rivers.
- Fubara has since held two closed-door meetings with Tinubu in London and Lagos.
- A decision could come before June 18, when the six-month emergency period ends.
The meetings with Tinubu, first in London, then in Lagos have sparked hope that the governor may be reinstated soon. Insiders say Fubara is willing to align with Tinubu’s political interests, potentially switching to APC, a move similar to Governors Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom).
Wike, Tinubu’s ally and current FCT Minister, remains a strong opponent of Fubara’s return. He has insisted that any reconciliation must be “sincere,” but sources claim he was left out of Fubara’s latest meeting with Tinubu, suggesting shifting alliances.
Stakeholders, including the Ijaw National Congress, believe Tinubu has all the justification he needs to reinstate Fubara in time for June 12. Whether he does so or allows the political standoff to continue remains to be seen.
