Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara To Return To Office With Reduced Powers

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is set to resume office on September 18, marking the end of a six-month state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18. However, Fubara’s return comes with significant limitations on his powers.

Conditions for Reinstatement

According to a presidency source, Fubara’s reinstatement is contingent on conditions that strip him of control over critical governance structures, including:
– Local Government: Fubara will not have control over the local government, with the All Progressives Congress (APC)-controlled local government chairmen working with him while opposing “vicious policies”.
– Rivers State House of Assembly: The governor will also not have control over the assembly, which will likely be aligned with the APC.

Influence of Minister Nyesom Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is expected to continue playing a decisive role in Rivers politics, with the presidency source stating that “Wike will take all the bullets for him”. This suggests that Wike will remain a key power broker in the state.

Cabinet Composition and Decision-Making

Fubara will be presented with a list of commissioners already decided by Abuja, which he will forward to the House of Assembly for confirmation. Additionally, key appointments, project priorities, capital projects, and major expenditures will be dictated by the Presidency to avoid further clashes between the governor and lawmakers.

APC’s Stance

The APC in Rivers State has declared its readiness to work with Fubara when he resumes office, while also holding him accountable for his actions. APC chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, stated that the party will collaborate with Fubara but will not hesitate to criticize him if necessary.³

Implications

Fubara’s return with reduced powers raises questions about the future of Rivers State politics and the potential for further conflicts between the governor and the APC-controlled assembly. The APC’s victory in 20 out of 23 local government areas in the recent elections may also impact the state’s political dynamics.