President Bola Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara in London this week, marking their first face-to-face discussion since the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18.
The meeting, reportedly initiated by Fubara, focused on resolving the political crisis that led to the suspension of the governor, his deputy, and the state assembly members. While the presidency declined official comments, anonymous sources confirmed the talks explored restoring functional governance in the oil-rich state before Fubara’s six-month suspension ends.
President Tinubu had invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution following months of political instability, appointing former Chief of Naval Staff Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as sole administrator. The move came amid escalating tensions between Fubara and his estranged political godfather, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
Notably, Wike was absent from the London meeting, with sources indicating his unease over the discussions proceeding without his involvement. The outcome remains undisclosed, but insiders suggest negotiations may pave the way for Fubara’s early reinstatement.
The development follows sustained pressure from Rivers protesters demanding Fubara’s return and comes as Nigeria grapples with multiple security crises, including fresh violence in Benue and Edo states.
