Fubara
Olayiwola Mercy
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, recently met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, describing their discussion as a “father-son discussion”. This meeting occurred days after Fubara’s reinstatement as governor, following a six-month emergency rule imposed by President Tinubu. Fubara stated that the purpose of his visit was to thank President Tinubu for his intervention in restoring peace to Rivers State and to seek guidance on how to move forward in governance.
According to Fubara, the meeting was an opportunity for him to express gratitude and receive advice from the President on navigating potential challenges and avoiding crises in the state. Tinubu offered Fubara guidance on steering the affairs of the oil-rich state without crisis, emphasizing the importance of working together with all stakeholders. Fubara reiterated that peace has been restored in Rivers State, declaring that he has made peace with his predecessor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, stating, “As far as I’m concerned, we have made peace. Fubara and his principal are working together”.
The meeting between Fubara and Tinubu comes after months of political tension in Rivers State, which led to the declaration of a state of emergency in March 2025. The President’s intervention and subsequent lifting of the emergency rule have been seen as a positive development for the state, with Fubara expressing gratitude for the President’s role in restoring peace. Fubara had resisted pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the emergency rule and suspension of democratic institutions in the state, prioritizing restoring stability in Rivers State.
Fubara’s meeting with Tinubu marked a significant step in rebuilding relationships and ensuring smooth governance in Rivers State. The governor’s commitment to working with all parties, including the Assembly members, National Assembly members, elders, and others, aims to promote the betterment of the state. By seeking guidance from President Tinubu, Fubara demonstrates his willingness to collaborate and find solutions to the state’s challenges, potentially paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future for Rivers State.
