Amid Political Crisis: Tinubu Counters: Obasanjo’s Advice To Fubara As President Declares State Of Emergency In Rivers State

PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s counsel to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to take drastic measures in Rivers State has been outmaneuvered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold intervention.

The political turmoil gripping the state has drawn reactions from key national figures, leading to a dramatic turn of events.

During a private meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo advised Governor Siminalayi Fubara to assert his authority over the escalating crisis. Obasanjo urged the governor to consider shutting down the State House of Assembly and, if necessary, declaring a state of emergency to regain control before external forces could interfere.

The former president emphasized the importance of Fubara exercising his powers as the state’s elected Chief Security Officer without succumbing to external political pressures.

Despite Obasanjo’s strategic recommendations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took decisive action by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

This announcement, made during a nationwide broadcast, aimed to address the deteriorating political and security situation in the state.

Tinubu highlighted that the decision was taken in the best interest of the people of Rivers State, stressing the urgent need for stability.

In a move to restore order and manage the state’s affairs, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) as the Administrator of Rivers State.

His appointment is seen as part of Tinubu’s strategic efforts to ensure the protection of the state’s citizens and institutions during this period of heightened political tension.

Obasanjo reportedly told Fubara at the meeting that, “You are the governor, chosen by the people. You are the Chief Security Officer in Rivers State. Your decisions must be upheld – neither Tinubu nor Wike placed you in office.”

The former president was reported to have further recommended that Fubara should remove security details from Assembly members, dismantle opposing political factions, and eliminate any areas designated for impeachment activities.

Also, Obasanjo reportedly cautioned the governor against importing “U.S.-style politics” into a lawless environment and advised him to take immediate and decisive steps to safeguard his mandate.

Political analysts however interpreted Obasanjo’s visit and strong counsel as a critical moment in the escalating power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

The development, they observed could also heighten tensions with the federal government, especially as the 2027 elections loom on the horizon.