Port Harcourt, Rivers State — In a stunning political twist, former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has publicly announced that the suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly will be reinstated on September 18, 2025. Wike, who has been at the center of the political crisis, made the unexpected declaration while casting his vote in the local government elections on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters, Wike framed the move as a crucial step to “stabilize the grassroots level.” He praised President Tinubu for ensuring the local government elections were conducted, a move he said was vital to prevent a leadership vacuum. “If the election is not conducted… it means that funds will not come from the federation account to local government councils,” Wike said.
The minister added that with the state of emergency set to be lifted, the reinstatement of the governor and the Assembly would complete the restoration of governance.
However, the elections themselves were marked by stark contradictions. While the Rivers State All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, hailed the exercise as the most peaceful he had ever seen, a tour of polling units by our correspondent revealed a widespread sense of voter apathy. Many streets were deserted, with youths choosing to play football, claiming the election results had already been pre-determined.
Conversely, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship Candidate for Obio-Akpor LGA, Dr. Gift Worlu, celebrated a strong voter turnout in his area, attributing the success to a vigorous campaign.
