The reinstatement of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara after six months of emergency rule has triggered a fierce political storm, with opposition leaders, rights activists, and lawyers accusing President Bola Tinubu of trampling Nigeria’s democratic principles.
Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the state House of Assembly were suspended in March when Tinubu declared emergency rule and appointed retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator. On Wednesday, the president lifted the decree, announcing the governor’s return to office from September 18.
While the move has been hailed by some as a restoration of peace, critics argue the suspension itself was unconstitutional and has left lasting damage to Rivers’ fragile political stability.
Wike praises Tinubu for “restoring democracy”
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike applauded Tinubu, describing the decision as proof of his commitment to peace and democratic governance. Wike urged Rivers people to unite and warned political “fifth columnists” to steer clear.
“From Rivers State going forward, the only news that will emanate will be that of peace, progress and development,” Wike said.
Atiku: “Nothing to celebrate”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Paul Ibe, blasted the suspension as an illegal overreach.
“The president has no power to vacate a democratically elected governor. It was unconstitutional from the start. Reinstating him doesn’t erase the illegality,” Ibe told DAILY POST, accusing Tinubu of weaponising state institutions to coerce opposition into the APC.
Human rights lawyer: “Fubara has been neutralised”
Lawyer Maduabuchi Idam argued that the suspension weakened Fubara’s legitimacy, leaving him “decimated” and politically dependent on external influence.
“Fubara will now be a puppet. A local government chairman will wield more power than him,” Idam said, alleging the move was orchestrated to consolidate Tinubu’s influence in Rivers through Wike.
Adeyanju: “A dangerous precedent”
Activist Deji Adeyanju condemned the development as a step backwards to military-era politics.
“It’s tragic that Tinubu, who once fought the military, has set such an evil precedent. The judiciary also failed by not declaring the suspension unconstitutional,” he said.
CUPP: Emergency was ‘a power grab’
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) welcomed the lifting of emergency rule but denounced its imposition as “an egregious act of federal overreach.”
“The suspension of elected leaders over a political dispute was an unconstitutional power grab that never should have occurred,” CUPP said.
As Rivers awaits Fubara’s return, the state’s political divisions remain sharp, with a factionalised House of Assembly and fears of renewed instability.
