Fubara's Return: Action Alliance Raises Alarm Over Potential "Rubber Stamp" Governance!
By EgbemaVoice,
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, is poised to return to office on September 18, marking the conclusion of a six-month state of emergency imposed by President Bola Tinubu in March. This federal intervention was enacted in response to a political crisis that placed Rivers State under federal control, with retired Naval Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas appointed as the sole administrator.
In a bid to reconcile the conflicting factions, President Tinubu convened a peace meeting on June 3, involving Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The meeting produced a fragile truce designed to facilitate Fubara’s eventual reinstatement.
However, concerns have emerged regarding the governor’s autonomy upon his return to office. Enemari John, the Chairman of the Action Alliance in Benue State, expressed to BusinessDay that Fubara’s reinstatement might render him a mere figurehead, lacking true leadership authority. “He will be a rubber stamp governor because his hands are now tied,” John remarked, indicating that the political compromises made during the peace process could significantly undermine Fubara’s control over the state government.
Moreover, John cautioned the governor against becoming subservient to political godfathers, advising that if Fubara finds himself incapable of acting in the best interests of the Rivers people, he should consider resignation as a dignified option. “Fubara should be steadfast and let go. If they insist on him working for them, he should resign,” he urged, emphasizing that leadership ought to be driven by genuine service rather than political subordination.
John further noted that Nigeria's political history is replete with instances of governors who succumbed to the influence of their benefactors, ultimately leading to their political and financial decline by the end of their tenure.
This warning highlights the uncertainty surrounding Fubara’s position as he prepares to reclaim control of the government. His suspension in March arose from escalating tensions with Wike and the state assembly, raising alarm over potential instability in Rivers, a state vital to Nigeria’s oil revenues.
While the federal government’s intervention has brought a temporary calm, lingering questions remain about the sustainability of the reconciliation efforts and whether Fubara will be able to govern with full authority. Political observers suggest that the outcome of his return could set a crucial precedent concerning the balance of power between governors and influential party figures in Nigeria.
As Rivers State anticipates Fubara’s official return on September 18, the pivotal question looms: will he emerge as a strong leader or be constrained by political deals as a weakened governor? Only time will tell.
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