According to presidency sources, suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s reinstatement is contingent upon certain conditions. Fubara is reportedly expected to¹:
– Serve Out Current Term: Complete his tenure without seeking re-election in 2027.
– Acknowledge Wike’s Leadership: Accept Nyesom Wike’s leadership and allow him to nominate candidates for all PDP local government elections in the state.
– Settle Outstanding Allowances: Pay all outstanding allowances and entitlements of the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers who were suspended from the House of Assembly.

In return, the lawmakers are expected to cooperate with Fubara to complete his tenure. This development comes after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, citing the prolonged political impasse between Fubara and Wike.²

The six-month emergency rule is set to expire on September 18, 2025, paving the way for Fubara’s potential return to office. The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has already hinted at Fubara’s return, stating that the 2025 budget includes provisions for the suspended governor and other political officeholders.³

Background to the Crisis

The political feud between Fubara and Wike has been ongoing since late 2023, with both sides engaging in intense battles for dominance. The Supreme Court ruled on February 28, 2025, that the 27 lawmakers who allegedly defected are still valid members of the state House of Assembly.⁴

Implications of Fubara’s Return

Fubara’s return to office would mark a significant development in the state’s politics, with potential implications for the upcoming 2027 elections. As part of the agreement, Wike’s influence over the state’s political machinery is expected to increase, with him controlling local government nominations.