Emergency rule: Tinubu, Fubara return as Rivers prepares for Ibas’ handing-over
President Bola Tinubu and suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, are set to return to Nigeria today, signaling a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape as it prepares for a return to democratic governance later this week.
After cutting short his vacation in France, President Tinubu is heading back to Abuja, while Fubara is expected to arrive from London. Their returns come just days before the planned reinstatement of Fubara and the end of emergency rule led by Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.). Ibas has been overseeing the state during a tumultuous period marked by political turmoil.
Tinubu’s unanticipated early return follows his initial schedule, which had him abroad for ten working days. According to Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu will resume official duties immediately upon his arrival in Abuja.
In Paris, Tinubu met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss and strengthen bilateral relations, aiming to foster cooperation for mutual prosperity.
As Rivers State braces for the transition back to democratic governance after months of emergency rule, Ibas has initiated a series of activities to facilitate a smooth handover of power. A thanksgiving service held in Port Harcourt marked the beginning of these festivities.
Today’s agenda includes a significant public lecture at the Banquet Hall of Government House, themed “Democracy and Good Governance.” Vice Admiral Ibas is set to be the Special Guest of Honour, with attendees expected at 9:30 a.m.
Fubara’s return, initially anticipated for Monday, has been confirmed for today, paving the way for his reinstatement on Thursday. His comeback is keenly awaited, especially amid ongoing preparations for the state to shift back to a democratic framework.
The convergence of Tinubu’s return and Fubara’s arrival heightens anticipation of the political transition, especially as Ibas gears up to hand back power after steering the state through a challenging phase of governance.
The state of emergency was declared by President Tinubu in March 2025 due to extensive political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats, which ultimately impeded governance in Rivers State. The subsequent months have seen intense conflicts over legislative legitimacy and governance, culminating in major Supreme Court rulings that deemed many of Fubara’s actions unconstitutional.
As the state anticipates democratic restoration, the atmosphere remains charged with political dynamics, with stakeholders closely observing the developments in Rivers State.
Source: PUNCH
