President Bola Tinubu and suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara are both expected to return to Nigeria on Tuesday, ahead of Thursday’s crucial handover marking the end of emergency rule in Rivers State.
Tinubu, who cut short his vacation in France and the UK, will resume duties immediately in Abuja, according to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
Meanwhile, Fubara, away in London, is also set to arrive on the same day. His return signals the next phase in the Rivers State Transition 2025 — a political reset following months of tension, legal battles, and one-man administration.
Vice Admiral Ibas Begins Exit After Emergency Rule: The current Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who took over in March 2025 following the President’s declaration of emergency rule, has initiated formal transition events.
On Sunday, a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt kicked off the handover process.
A public lecture themed “Democracy and Good Governance” is scheduled for Tuesday, September 16, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Port Harcourt. Ibas is billed as the Special Guest of Honour.
“Invited guests are requested to be seated by 9:30 a.m.,” said Dr. Ibibia Worika, Secretary to the State Government.
What Triggered the Emergency Rule in Rivers State?
President Tinubu declared emergency rule on March 18, 2025, citing:
Political instability and a power tussle between Fubara and Nyesom Wike
Demolition of the State Assembly Complex
Defection of 27 PDP lawmakers to APC
Legislative paralysis and security threats, including pipeline vandalism in oil-producing areas
Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed to stabilize the state’s governance while preparing for democratic restoration.
Court Ruling Affirms Emergency LG Polls, Dismisses Suit Against Tinubu
In a related development, a suit filed by William Abayomi, challenging Tinubu’s appointment of Ibas and the legality of the August 30 local government elections, was struck out by the Rivers State High Court.
Presiding Justice Stephen Jumbo ruled that:
Only the Supreme Court has jurisdiction during emergency rule.
The claimant lacked locus standi to sue.
The elections, conducted by RSIEC, were valid and constitutional.
“The judge in his wisdom has given judgment. We will decide the next steps,” said Godsent Elewa, counsel to the claimant.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Handover:
The expected return of Tinubu and Fubara on the same day has heightened anticipation, with political watchers eyeing the unfolding events closely.
Will Fubara be peacefully reinstated? Can the state avoid further crisis after months of executive-legislative deadlock?
As the Rivers State Transition 2025 enters its final hours, stakeholders hope for a smooth, democratic restoration—and the end of months of political uncertainty in one of Nigeria’s most strategic oil states.
