President Bola Tinubu has once again stepped into the deepening political crisis in Rivers State, halting what appeared to be an imminent impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
At the center of the crisis is the long-running Rivers State political crisis, which has continued to unsettle governance in the oil-rich state.
The latest intervention was reportedly ordered just before President Tinubu departed Nigeria for an official visit to Türkiye on January 26. According to multiple sources, the directive was firm and immediate.
The fresh tension resurfaced in January when lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly, loyal to Wike, initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara.
The allegations were based on claims of misconduct, including the alleged spending of unbudgeted public funds. However, the impeachment process was quickly paused following the president’s involvement.
This development is particularly striking given the history of the feud. Tinubu had earlier brokered a fragile peace between both men in December 2023. That agreement later collapsed, leading to the declaration of a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, and the suspension of Governor Fubara.
However, the president’s latest move signals a renewed effort to stabilize the state. Sources revealed that Tinubu ordered an immediate suspension of all impeachment plans, though the directive came with strict political conditions. Moreover, the president reportedly emphasized that Wike remains the dominant political force in Rivers State and must be accorded due respect.
The intervention was said to carry a blunt warning. Tinubu reportedly expressed displeasure over the continued rivalry, stressing that prolonged hostilities could weaken governance and fuel instability. Therefore, he made it clear that further escalation would not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, Wike was also cautioned to step away from any impeachment plot and allow the state government to function.
In addition, Rivers State is widely seen as politically strategic to Tinubu’s re-election plans. Consequently, allowing the crisis to spiral could prove costly. The Rivers State political crisis has already disrupted legislative activities and slowed governance, raising concerns among residents and stakeholders.
Although calm has been temporarily restored, it remains uncertain whether the peace will last. Tinubu’s renewed involvement has reset the political atmosphere, at least for now.
