Reinstate Fubara before June 12- Goodluck Jonathan
According to report by FCNN, former President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly among influential Nigerians lobbying behind the scenes for the reinstatement of suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, before June 12. Sources say Jonathan has spoken directly with President Bola Tinubu, urging him to restore Fubara in honor of Democracy Day, when the president is expected to address the nation.
Fubara was suspended on March 18 alongside his deputy and state lawmakers aligned with former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Many critics argue that Tinubu’s move lacked constitutional backing, citing Sections 305 and 188 of the Constitution, which do not empower the president to suspend elected governors outside of a formal emergency rule.
The political conflict is rooted in a fierce power struggle between Fubara and Wike over control of the PDP in Rivers. Despite speculation that Fubara would be reinstated on May 29, attention has now turned to June 12 as a possible date for his return, just days before the emergency period hits the three-month mark.
In April, Fubara met Tinubu privately in London to seek a peaceful resolution, followed by a second meeting in Lagos. The tone of their public photos suggests reconciliation is underway. Ahead of that meeting, Fubara urged his supporters to stop criticizing both Tinubu and Wike to avoid derailing peace efforts.
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There are signs Fubara may shift allegiance from the PDP to the APC, aligning with moves by Delta and Akwa Ibom governors. Such a switch could strengthen Tinubu’s political base for 2027, but risks alienating Wike, who has vowed to lead Tinubu’s re-election campaign in Rivers.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly has approved Tinubu’s proposed N1.4 trillion budget for Rivers, insulating Fubara from a hostile legislature, widely seen as loyal to Wike. Analysts see this as a strategic move to restore stability and keep Fubara in power without risking impeachment.
Ijaw leader Prof. Benjamin Okaba believes Tinubu should reverse the suspension, arguing Fubara enjoys strong grassroots support. Media adviser Opunabo Inkor-Tariah noted Fubara’s achievements, including 52 completed projects, as proof of capable leadership.
Besides Jonathan, two other former presidents have reportedly applied pressure on Tinubu to resolve the impasse. These efforts have encouraged optimism that Fubara may be reinstated earlier than the six-month timeline initially declared.
