Elders in Rivers State have dismissed the much-anticipated return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, warning that the six-month emergency rule has weakened his political influence and strengthened his rival, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
President Bola Tinubu declared emergency rule on March 16, 2025, following escalating political unrest and alleged militant attacks on oil pipelines. The proclamation led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly. Former Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as the interim administrator.
Speaking with Punch, Sunny Chukumele, convener of the Coalition of Rivers State Leaders of Thought, said the last six months had effectively “captured” the state. He accused President Tinubu of sacrificing Rivers people in pursuit of his political goals for the 2027 elections.
“The state is captured. Rivers has been successfully subdued, and the governor has been cowed for a false peace. What exists now is peace in the graveyard. Rivers people look helpless and abandoned. The President has sacrificed the state for his 2027 ambition,” Chukumele lamented.
Asukewe Iko-Awaji, a member of the Rivers Elders Forum, echoed the concerns, stressing that Fubara’s prolonged absence had eroded his political capital and damaged the state’s economy.
“The truth is that the damage has been done. Companies have pulled out, projects have stalled, and the sense of brotherhood among leaders has been broken. Even if Fubara returns, rebuilding trust and economic momentum will take months,” he said.
However, Olaka Wogu, an ally of Wike, argued that Fubara’s return might not significantly alter the political equation. He described Wike as a blunt but honest leader who fought to protect his political structure.
“People often misread Wike. He is straightforward and has kept his political base intact. The governor remains part of that structure,” Wogu maintained.
With the emergency rule set to expire in a matter of days, the future of Rivers politics hangs on whether Fubara can regain lost ground or if Wike’s dominance will remain unchallenged.
