Rivers Political Crises, Fubara’s Suspension and Return: How It All Started
The Rivers State political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, now FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has been one of Nigeria’s most dramatic power struggles in recent history. What began as a quiet tussle in 2023 soon escalated into impeachment threats, assembly demolition, court battles, and eventually, a presidential declaration of emergency rule.
With the six-month emergency rule now lifted, Fubara is back in office. But how did it all unfold?
The Beginning of the Rift
The cracks appeared in October 2023, barely months after Fubara assumed office. The conflict revolved around who controlled Rivers’ political structure. Both men commanded loyalty from different blocs within the PDP, dividing the state into rival camps.
Assembly Fire and Demolition
On October 29, 2023, part of the Rivers State House of Assembly was destroyed by fire following an explosion. A few weeks later, the building was demolished by Fubara’s government, which cited safety concerns. Critics, however, accused him of weakening the opposition-dominated chamber.
Tinubu’s First Peace Deal
To ease tensions, President Bola Tinubu invited both camps to Abuja in December 2023, where they signed an eight-point peace accord. The deal collapsed almost immediately as both sides traded accusations of bad faith.
Budget Showdown and Court Orders
In 2024, the budget presentation became a flashpoint. With two rival assemblies — one loyal to Fubara and another to Amaewhule — the Supreme Court in February 2025 ordered the CBN to withhold Rivers’ monthly allocations until the governor presented the budget to the Amaewhule-led lawmakers.
Council Elections Crisis
The local government elections of October 2024 were heavily criticized and later annulled by the Supreme Court, fueling doubts about the credibility of Rivers’ democratic institutions.
Rival Assemblies and Cabinet Resignations
A Rivers court later recognized Edison Ehie, a Fubara loyalist, as speaker, further deepening the legislative split. Meanwhile, commissioners loyal to Wike resigned between late 2023 and mid-2024, citing hostile work conditions.
Impeachment Attempt and Tinubu’s Intervention
By March 2025, lawmakers loyal to Wike initiated impeachment proceedings against Fubara on 19 allegations. The crisis climaxed when Tinubu declared emergency rule on March 18, suspending both the governor and the assembly, and appointing retired Naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator.
Suspension Lifted, Fubara Returns
In June 2025, Tinubu again summoned Wike and Fubara to Abuja, where they publicly agreed to reconcile. With the emergency rule lifted, Fubara has returned to office.
The lingering question, however, is whether Rivers State has truly turned the page — or if another round of political battles lies ahead.
