Gov Fubara Visits Presidential Villa After Reinstatement

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Monday paid his first official visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, since his reinstatement as governor, marking a significant moment in the state’s return to democratic governance after six months of emergency rule.

The governor arrived at the Villa at about 6:20 p.m. and proceeded alone to the President’s office, where he was expected to meet with President Bola Tinubu. Although the agenda of the visit was not publicly disclosed, political observers suggest it may be connected to ongoing discussions about consolidating peace and stability in Rivers State following the recent political crisis.

First Visit After Emergency Rule

Fubara’s presence at the Villa comes just five days after President Tinubu formally lifted the emergency rule imposed on the state on March 18, 2025. The drastic measure followed weeks of escalating political tension, violent clashes, and institutional breakdown in Rivers State, which led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly.

The emergency rule placed the state under federal administration, with a special administrator appointed to oversee governance. During this period, security forces were deployed to restore order, mediate warring factions, and prevent further unrest.

On September 17, 2025, President Tinubu announced the end of the emergency rule, citing improved security and successful peace negotiations among key political stakeholders. The reinstatement of Fubara and his cabinet was seen as a step toward reconciliation and a chance to restore public confidence in governance.

Governor Expresses Gratitude

In a statewide broadcast shortly after his reinstatement, Fubara expressed gratitude to the President for what he described as a “decisive intervention” that prevented Rivers from sliding into deeper crisis.

“I am eternally grateful to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and swift action in restoring peace to our state,” Fubara said. “This is an opportunity for us to rebuild trust, strengthen our institutions, and put the people of Rivers State first.”

He pledged to prioritize dialogue and inclusive governance in the coming months, promising to work with all stakeholders, including those who had opposed him—to ensure political stability and accelerate development projects that stalled during the crisis.

Symbolism of the Visit

Monday’s visit to the Presidential Villa carries both symbolic and practical weight. For many Rivers residents, it signals the governor’s willingness to maintain a cordial relationship with the federal government and prevent a relapse into political instability.

Analysts note that Fubara’s decision to visit alone may also reflect a desire to project unity and personal accountability. “This is more than a courtesy call,” said political commentator Ndidi George. “It’s an important gesture showing that the governor is ready to work hand-in-hand with Abuja to move past the turbulence of the past six months.”

Although no official statement was released on the outcome of the meeting as of press time, expectations are high that discussions may have touched on security arrangements, reconciliation plans, and strategies for rebuilding the state’s economy after months of stalled governance.

What Comes Next

With his reinstatement, Fubara faces the challenge of steering Rivers State through a delicate transition period. His administration is under pressure to quickly restart development projects, settle unpaid obligations, and reassure both investors and citizens that peace will hold.

Observers believe Monday’s visit could be the first of several high-level engagements between the state government and the presidency, aimed at consolidating peace and avoiding a repeat of the crisis.

For now, all eyes remain on how Fubara navigates the post-crisis political terrain, rebuilds trust with the state legislature, and addresses the grievances that triggered the emergency rule in the first place.

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