On September 18, 2025, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule are set to resume their official duties following a six-month suspension of democratic institutions in the state. This return marks the end of the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025. According to the President, the decision to lift the emergency came after it became evident that peace and political stability had returned to the state.
President Tinubu explained that the emergency was necessitated by a total breakdown in governance. The political crisis between Governor Fubara and the majority of the Assembly had made governance impossible, with critical state functions—including budget presentation—coming to a halt. Attempts to mediate between the factions failed, leading to the suspension of all elected officials and the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Etteh Ibas (retd.) as Sole Administrator. The President acknowledged that while the move was controversial and sparked legal battles—over 40 court cases—it was a necessary constitutional intervention to avert anarchy.
As the democratic structure is reinstated, reactions from political parties and stakeholders have been mixed. The PDP has warned Governor Fubara against defecting to the APC, while the APC is actively courting him, even offering him leadership of the party in Rivers State. Meanwhile, drama unfolded at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where aides of the outgoing Sole Administrator protested over unpaid allowances, although officials described the situation as calm.
The return of democracy has drawn varied reactions. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike praised Tinubu for restoring democratic order, urging stakeholders to focus on peace and development. PANDEF, however, described the past six months as a dark period, calling for reflection rather than celebration. In contrast, the Ijaw National Congress called for jubilations, urging citizens to celebrate Governor Fubara’s reinstatement. As Fubara resumes office, expectations are high for reconciliation and effective governance in Rivers State.