President Tinubu Directs Ibas To Prepare Handover Notes As Fubara’s Return Approaches
By Oludare Joshua
With September 18 on the horizon, preparations are underway for the reinstatement of the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and the 32-member House of Assembly. This follows a closed-door meeting last week between President Tinubu and Sole Administrator Ibas at the Presidential Villa.
Sources indicate that during this meeting, President Tinubu issued a directive for Ibas to compile a detailed handover note summing up his six-month emergency governance, including all funds inherited from the previous administration, revenue generated during the emergency period, and associated expenditures on state projects.
The reinstatement of Fubara, however, comes with certain stipulations. Officials reveal that he has agreed to serve out his current term without seeking re-election in 2027. Further, he has acknowledged the leadership of former Governor Wike and accepted that the Federal Capital Territory Minister will nominate candidates for all local government elections in the state under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Additionally, Fubara has committed to settling all outstanding allowances and entitlements owed to the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers who were previously suspended from the House of Assembly. In exchange, it is expected that these lawmakers will collaborate with him to ensure the successful completion of his tenure.
A source familiar with the developments noted, “Upon his return, Fubara will address the outstanding dues for the 27 legislators aligned with the FCT Minister, thereby ensuring their cooperation in the governance of Rivers State.”
This situation follows a Supreme Court ruling on February 28, 2025, that affirmed the validity of the 27 lawmakers. The court’s decision emphasized the necessity of a functioning legislature for the viability of state governance, warning against the dangers of an ineffective governing body.
On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political crisis, stating, “The state has been at a standstill since the crisis started, with the good people of the state not being able to access the dividends of democracy.”
With the six-month emergency rule set to conclude on September 18, the political landscape in Rivers State is poised for significant changes as Fubara and his administration prepare for their return.
