Govnor Fubara return after state of emergency, what next for Rivers state?

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State is set to resume work on Thursday, following the lifting of the six-month state of emergency that was declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025.¹ The presidential proclamation came in response to a protracted political crisis that had paralyzed governance in the state.²

The crisis stemmed from a deep-seated feud between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.³ The disagreement led to a breakdown of a working relationship between the governor and the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is dominated by lawmakers loyal to Wike.⁴ This political standoff effectively halted government functions, as the Assembly was unable to pass a budget or conduct other legislative business.⁵

President Tinubu’s intervention, which saw the suspension of the governor, his deputy, and the state’s lawmakers, was aimed at restoring peace and order. A sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), was put in place to manage the state’s affairs during the emergency rule.⁶

With the state of emergency now officially ended as of midnight on September 17, 2025, Governor Fubara and his administration are expected to fully return to their duties.⁷ The next few weeks will be crucial as the state navigates the post-emergency period. Major tasks ahead include:

• Resumption of Governance: The immediate priority for Governor Fubara will be to present an appropriation bill to the House of Assembly to enable his administration to access funds and carry out developmental projects.
• Reconciliation and Political Stability: The true test of the peace deal brokered by President Tinubu will be seen in the ability of Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to work together without further conflict. While both parties have publicly expressed a commitment to peace, the underlying tensions from the power struggle remain.
• Political Realignment: The political landscape in Rivers State has been significantly altered by the crisis and the subsequent emergency rule. Future political activities and the run-up to the next elections will likely be shaped by these developments.

While the return to full democratic governance is a positive step, many in the state and across the country are watching closely to see if the fragile peace will hold and if the state can move forward from the prolonged political instability.⁸