Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reinstated the traditional ruler of Emohua Kingdom, Eze Sergeant Chidi Awuse, as Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers.

The appointment was announced on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokoma, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt.

According to the announcement, Awuse’s appointment takes immediate effect.

His reinstatement comes amid ongoing reconciliation efforts involving Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, following the prolonged political crisis that divided the state’s leadership.

Awuse, who is regarded as a political ally of Wike, was previously removed from the position by Fubara in June 2024.

At the time, the governor announced the appointment of the paramount ruler of Apara Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, as his replacement.

Fubara had justified Awuse’s removal by accusing him of failing to provide effective leadership for the council and alleging that the traditional rulers’ body had become inactive under his leadership.

The governor also expressed displeasure over the council’s 2024 calendar, which reportedly excluded photographs of the governor and his deputy.

He subsequently called for a new leadership capable of promoting unity among traditional rulers and maintaining a cordial relationship with the state government.

Awuse’s return to the position comes as political stakeholders in Rivers State continue efforts to rebuild relationships following years of disagreements between Fubara and Wike.

Recent reconciliation meetings involving both political camps have raised expectations of improved cooperation and political stability in the state.

Although the governor’s announcement did not expressly identify the reinstatement as part of a reconciliation agreement, the development comes against the backdrop of renewed political engagements in Rivers State.