President Tinubu Meets Fubara in London, Set to Lift Suspension Amid Rivers Political Crisis
In a major political development, President Bola Tinubu has reportedly held a closed-door meeting with suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara in London. The meeting, which took place last week, is seen as a crucial step toward resolving the lingering Rivers State political crisis…..CONTINUE READING
According to sources close to the presidency, the meeting was initiated by Governor Fubara himself, who has expressed a strong desire to return to office and make necessary compromises to restore peace in the state.
Fubara’s Suspension May Be Lifted Soon
Governor Fubara was suspended on March 18, 2025, following escalating tensions in the state, including an oil pipeline explosion and a bitter rift with lawmakers loyal to his former political ally, Nyesom Wike. Since then, Rivers State has been under the emergency leadership of retired naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas, who was appointed by President Tinubu as sole administrator.
With the recent meeting, sources now suggest that Fubara’s suspension could be lifted ahead of the six-month deadline, especially if he agrees to align politically with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tensions Between Fubara and Wike
Noticeably absent from the London meeting was Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and Fubara’s former mentor. Wike is said to be displeased with the backchannel talks, further fueling speculation of a permanent fallout between the two powerful Rivers politicians.
Political analysts believe that President Tinubu may soon initiate a three-way reconciliation meeting involving Fubara, Wike, and the 27 lawmakers who defected from the PDP to APC, deepening the state’s power struggle.
Why Rivers State Matters
Rivers State is one of Nigeria’s most oil-rich regions, and with over 90% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange tied to crude oil, stability in the state is a national priority. The federal government had earlier declared a state of emergency to prevent further chaos and safeguard vital oil infrastructure.
If successful, this meeting could mark the beginning of the end for the Rivers political impasse. For now, all eyes are on President Tinubu’s next move — and whether Governor Fubara will return to power with a renewed alliance and political backing.
