Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the 32-member House of Assembly are expected to return to office on September 18, 2025. This development comes six months after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending all elected officials and appointing Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator.¹
Conditions for Fubara’s Return
According to sources, Fubara’s return is contingent upon certain conditions, including²:
– Serving Out Current Term: Fubara is expected to complete his tenure without seeking re-election in 2027.
– Acknowledge Wike’s Leadership: He has reportedly accepted Nyesom Wike’s leadership and agreed to let him nominate candidates for local government elections.
– Settling Outstanding Allowances: Fubara is also expected to pay outstanding allowances and entitlements of pro-Wike lawmakers who were suspended from the House of Assembly.
Preparations for Handover
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has been directed to prepare a comprehensive handover note covering:
– Funds Inherited: Funds inherited from the suspended government.
– Revenues Accrued: Revenues generated during the emergency rule.
– Expenditures: Expenditures made on projects during the six-month period.
The handover report is expected to provide a detailed account of the Sole Administrator’s activities and financial transactions during his tenure. With Fubara’s return imminent, the stage is set for a new chapter in Rivers State politics.
