Rivers Governor Fubara Meets Tinubu After Emergency Rule Ends, Says “Peace Has Been Restored”

Abuja, Nigeria – Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has revealed details of his meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, on Monday evening, describing it as a cordial “father-son discussion.”

The meeting took place barely 24 hours after Fubara officially returned to office, following the lifting of the six-month emergency rule imposed on Rivers State in March. President Tinubu had announced the suspension of the emergency on September 17, directing Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly to resume duties.

During the emergency period, the state was overseen by retired admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who served as sole administrator.

“I Came to Thank the President”

Speaking with journalists after the closed-door meeting, Governor Fubara said his visit was primarily to express gratitude and seek guidance from the president.

“It was a father-son discussion. I thanked him and asked for his guidance in areas that could otherwise create issues. That’s all,” Fubara noted, while declining to share specific details of Tinubu’s advice.

Peace Restored in Rivers State

The governor reassured Rivers residents that peace had returned to the oil-rich state.

“As far as I’m concerned, we have made peace. Fubara and his principal are working together,” he declared.

On his return to Port Harcourt on September 19, Fubara was welcomed by jubilant crowds who celebrated his reinstatement. He later told citizens he resisted calls to legally challenge the emergency rule and suspension of democratic institutions, choosing instead the “path of peace” to prevent worsening political tensions.

The political standoff that triggered federal intervention in March had raised fears over governance and stability in Rivers, one of Nigeria’s most strategic states due to its oil and gas resources.

Now back in office, analysts say focus will shift to how effectively Fubara’s administration can deliver on governance and rebuild trust after months of crisis and federal control.