Implement Supreme Court judgement immediately -Tinubu tells Governor Fubara

President Bola Tinubu has called on Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to swiftly implement the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the ongoing political crisis in the state.

The president made the appeal during a closed-door meeting with leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, March 12, 2025.

The crisis in Rivers State has deepened the rift between Governor Fubara and his estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The dispute stems from a power struggle between the governor and the state House of Assembly, which remains largely loyal to Wike.

Tensions escalated late last year when the Assembly attempted to impeach Fubara, prompting interventions from the presidency.

During the meeting, Tinubu expressed his concerns about the situation and emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law.

“I got your signal and I got your concerns, particularly concerning Rivers State. I have been on it for quite some time. I foresaw this crisis long before I stepped in. We reached an agreement—a written agreement—which both parties signed,” Tinubu said.

He added, “It is sad we find ourselves in this situation today. This is a nation with a rule of law. I should not be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria if there is no rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Now, the Supreme Court has spoken—that is it. Please go back home and help him (Governor Fubara) to implement those recommendations within the shortest possible time.”

Tinubu also revealed that he had intervened in the crisis both privately and publicly, offering counsel to Fubara on the best way forward.

The president’s remarks come amid growing tensions in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, where Ijaw groups, who see Fubara as their representative, have warned against any move to unseat him.

Some groups have even threatened armed resistance, raising fears of further instability.

PANDEF, a leading regional body representing the interests of the Niger Delta, has been actively engaging in high-level talks to find a peaceful resolution.

The delegation to the Presidential Villa was led by National Chairman Ambassador Godknows Igali.

Tuesday’s meeting with PANDEF is part of Tinubu’s broader engagement with stakeholders in the Niger Delta.

On Monday, the president hosted an Iftar dinner attended by both Governor Fubara and Minister Wike, along with several other governors, ministers, and top government officials.

In January, Tinubu also met with leaders from Ogoniland, including Dr. Owens Wiwa, the younger brother of slain environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa.

The crisis in Rivers State highlights the complex political dynamics in the region and the challenges of maintaining stability in Nigeria’s oil-producing areas.

As stakeholders work to resolve the dispute, the implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling remains a critical step toward restoring peace and order in the state.

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