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| Governor Siminalayi Fubara |
Rivers State is once again in the spotlight as Governor Siminalayi Fubara has ignited confusion and debate within political and civil society circles following his controversial remarks about not wanting to return to the Government House in Port Harcourt. This unexpected statement comes amid a tense political climate and ongoing state of emergency that has kept the region on edge for months.
Fubara’s Shocking Declaration at a Tribute Event
Governor Fubara, who was suspended from office by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025, under the emergency declaration meant to restore order after prolonged political unrest, made the startling revelation during a tribute night honoring the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. The event was held at the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt and was attended by several dignitaries and political stakeholders.
In his heartfelt speech, Fubara stated that he felt healthier and more at peace as a private citizen, suggesting a lack of desire to resume his gubernatorial duties.
If I have my way, I wouldn’t want to return. My spirit has left that place (Government House). But many people, including the late Chief Clark, have made sacrifices for me. That is why I must stand by them,” he said.
Mixed Reactions from Political Stakeholders
The governor’s remarks immediately sparked diverse reactions, with many political actors interpreting his comments as a signal of possible withdrawal from leadership or a deeper expression of political fatigue. Critics and supporters alike are now questioning the implications of his statement and what it means for the future governance of Rivers State.
Dr. Joseph Ambakederimo, convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), described Fubara’s remarks as “highly regrettable” and accused him of disappointing his loyal supporters.
The governor is playing to the gallery. He has succeeded in throwing his teeming supporters under the bus. If he does not want to return as governor, why did he go to London? Why did he visit Wike in Abuja?” Ambakederimo queried, referring to Fubara’s recent diplomatic efforts.
Ambakederimo was referring to Fubara’s high-profile peace talks with President Tinubu in London and later engagements with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike in Abuja. These meetings were seen as strategic efforts to resolve the political impasse and signal his readiness to return to office.
Regional Leaders Urge Calm and Reassurance
Not all reactions were critical. Some leaders adopted a more measured tone. Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, a respected member of the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF), urged the public not to overreact to Fubara’s personal reflections.
Rivers people have taken a stand. They want the governor to be reinstated. We are satisfied with his governance. That is why everybody wants him back on the seat. When he is eventually reinstated, let him come and tell us that he will not return,” Sara-Igbe remarked.
Sara-Igbe also expressed optimism that the emergency rule declared by President Tinubu would not last its full six-month tenure. Many stakeholders in the region have called for a review of the emergency status, urging the federal government to find lasting political solutions instead of extended military control.
Ijaw Youth Council: It's Bigger Than Fubara
Adding to the discourse, Dr. Alaye Theophilus, President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), emphasized that the struggle in Rivers State transcends Governor Fubara as an individual. For him, the crisis highlights the broader issue of political oppression and a yearning for democratic restoration.
Even if it was another person that was the governor of the state, it is the spirit that we would have deployed. It is not about Sim Fubara. It is about enduring peace and progress of the state,” Theophilus said.
He stressed the need for a collective push to end the emergency rule and reinstate civil governance in the state, regardless of whether Fubara returns to the Government House.
Background of the Crisis
Rivers State has been embroiled in a fierce political battle since late 2024, with tensions between Governor Fubara and his political godfather, former governor Nyesom Wike, escalating into open conflict. Accusations of betrayal, power tussles, and executive-legislative gridlock plagued the administration, leading to violent protests, judicial interventions, and eventually, a presidential declaration of a state of emergency.
The federal government, citing security concerns and governance paralysis, suspended Fubara and appointed an interim administrator to manage state affairs. The decision, however, has drawn mixed reactions, with many accusing Abuja of overreach and suppression of democratic processes.
Supporters Still Rooting for Fubara
Despite the chaos and his apparent reluctance to return, many of Fubara’s supporters remain unwavering in their loyalty. Community groups, youth organizations, and political allies continue to call for his reinstatement, citing his achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, and grassroots development before the crisis escalated.
We believe Governor Fubara still has the capacity to lead Rivers State. His statement may have been made out of frustration, but we know he remains committed to the people,” said a community youth leader in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara’s emotional revelation may have exposed his personal exhaustion, but it also raises critical questions about the state’s political future. Can he regain control and trust after such a divisive episode? Will President Tinubu lift the state of emergency before its six-month term ends? And if Fubara truly does not wish to return, who will step up to lead Rivers State during this turbulent period?
Political analysts suggest that the coming weeks will be pivotal. If reconciliation efforts succeed, Fubara may find renewed strength and return to office with greater public support. However, if the division deepens, Rivers State may face an extended period of instability and uncertainty.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent statement about his reluctance to return to office has opened a new chapter in the already turbulent political story of Rivers State. While some view his comment as a moment of vulnerability and fatigue, others see it as a sign of wavering leadership. One thing is clear: Rivers State stands at a critical crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will shape its political and democratic future.
By Primelineinfo
Tags: Governor Fubara, Rivers State Politics, Sim Fubara Statement, State of Emergency, President Tinubu, Wike-Fubara Crisis, PANDEF, SSRG, IYC, Niger Delta Politics
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