President Tinubu Reconciles Wike, Fubara and Rivers State Lawmakers After Emergency Rule

President Bola Tinubu held a crucial closed-door meeting at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, bringing together former Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, suspended Rivers State lawmakers, and House Speaker Martins Amaewhule in a coordinated effort to resolve the lingering political crisis in Rivers State.

This marks the first time Fubara and Tinubu have met since the President declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, suspending the governor, his deputy, and the entire assembly—citing security concerns and political dysfunction.

Photographs and video from the event depict a notably warmer atmosphere, with participants smiling, shaking hands, and exchanging light remarks—signaling a breakthrough in reconciliation.

Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga posted on X that Tinubu, Wike, Fubara, Amaewhule, and lawmakers “have resolved their differences,” affirming that the President “wants peace for Rivers State".

Why It Matters

• Governance Restored: The reconciliation could pave the way for the end of the emergency rule and reinstate elected officials, enhancing democratic legitimacy.
• Security & Oil Stability: Rivers, an oil-rich region, has been vulnerable to pipeline vandalism—resolved leadership may help address these disruptions .
• Rule of Law vs. Political Strategy: Critics argue the emergency declaration was a power grab; the meeting may calm tensions while legal challenges continue at the Supreme Court.

Next Steps

• Confirm whether suspended officials will be reinstated or replaced by the interim administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas.
• Monitor Supreme Court rulings on constitutional challenges to the emergency declaration and suspensions.
• Follow any official announcements regarding the formal end of the emergency rule and next governance actions.