Fubara Says Tinubu’s “Special Favour” Secured His Return as Rivers Governor

 Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has credited President Bola Tinubu for his return to office, describing it as a “special favour” during the convocation ceremony of Rivers State University on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Fubara made the remarks while addressing graduates at the 37th & 38th Combined Convocation Ceremony. He said, “It is only by the special grace of God and the special favour from Mr. President that we are still standing here, serving the people of Rivers State.”

The governor’s statement comes months after President Tinubu declared a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State on March 18, 2025. The emergency was imposed following a political deadlock between the state’s executive and legislative branches, which included conflicts over budget approvals and impeachment threats against Fubara. The measure temporarily suspended Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly.

The emergency rule was lifted on September 17, 2025, allowing Fubara and his administration to resume their official duties. During his convocation address, the governor pledged to support Rivers State University financially and to address complaints raised by its management, signaling a return to normal governance.

The governor’s remarks also follow reports of behind-the-scenes negotiations, which reportedly included former Governor Nyesom Wike and other state stakeholders, aimed at reconciling political differences and ensuring the smooth resumption of governance.

Fubara’s statement is seen as a public acknowledgement of the federal government’s role in restoring his administration after the emergency rule.