Tensions in Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s oil-rich regions, may be easing after weeks of political turmoil and public protests.
This follows quiet diplomatic efforts between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which could bring major changes to the region’s leadership.
According to The Africa Report, President Tinubu and Governor Fubara—who was suspended from office on March 18, 2025—held a private meeting last week. Two of the president’s aides confirmed that the meeting happened in London, shortly after Tinubu returned from a trip to Paris. The meeting was reportedly arranged at Fubara’s request, as he has been keen to return to office since the president declared a state of emergency in the state.
“It is true. Governor Fubara held a private meeting with the president last week. Fubara has promised to make some compromises. Negotiations are ongoing, but from all indications, his suspension will be lifted before the six-month deadline,” a presidential adviser, speaking anonymously, confirmed to The Africa Report.
Fubara is also said to be considering joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to win the president’s support. This move could improve the party’s chances of winning in Rivers State. “If Fubara joins the APC, it means the president’s chances of winning Rivers State are much higher,” the aide noted.
However, Fubara’s former political mentor, Nyesom Wike—now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory—was not included in the private meeting and is reportedly unhappy about these secret discussions. President Tinubu is expected to organize a meeting involving Fubara, Wike, and Rivers lawmakers to find a lasting solution to the crisis.
The political conflict began when President Tinubu suspended Fubara after two oil pipelines exploded in the state. Security officials linked the explosion to a power struggle between Fubara and 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike. These lawmakers tried to impeach Fubara, accusing him of violating the constitution and being involved in the bombing of the state parliament building.
Since oil provides around 60% of Nigeria’s government revenue and 90% of its foreign exchange, the president declared a state of emergency in Rivers State to prevent further instability. He appointed former naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator, giving him full powers to govern the state.
This decision drew criticism from many groups, including organized labor, opposition parties, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the media. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the move as a “power grab” ahead of the 2027 election. Tinubu, however, defended his action, saying he had the legal right to declare a state of emergency—even though he had opposed a similar move by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005. The National Assembly later approved the emergency declaration.
Since Fubara’s suspension, Rivers State has seen weekly protests and court cases. Some people have criticized the governor for not being more assertive during the crisis. Still, Fubara has continued to call on the people of Rivers State to support President Tinubu.
As negotiations continue behind the scenes, the political future of Rivers State remains uncertain. However, there are growing signs that Tinubu and Fubara are working together to reach a solution that could bring peace and stability to the state.
