BREAKING: Tinubu Meets Rivers Administrator Ibas as Emergency Rule Nears End

Reported by Suzan Daniel | Sele Media Africa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, September 4, held a crucial closed-door meeting with the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, ahead of the expected expiration of the emergency rule in Rivers State.

This meeting, which lasted over two hours, comes just two weeks before the September 18, 2025 deadline for the six-month emergency declaration imposed in March amidst severe political turmoil in the oil-rich state.

Background: Emergency Rule in Rivers

President Tinubu had, in March 2025, declared an emergency rule in Rivers State following escalating tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his political benefactor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The conflict led to a breakdown in governance and widespread violence, prompting the federal government to suspend the governor, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire State House of Assembly.

In their place, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, as the interim administrator to stabilise the state and oversee its affairs during the emergency period.

Transition Looms

Although no official statement has been issued by the Presidency regarding the outcome of Wednesday’s meeting, Villa sources confirmed to Politics Nigeria and Premium Times that the discussions focused on transition logistics, security briefings, and the possible handover framework.

⁠“The President is closely monitoring the situation. Everything is being done to ensure a peaceful return to democratic governance in Rivers,” a senior aide said under condition of anonymity.

Wike Confirms End Date

Just last week, Minister Wike acknowledged in an interview during the local government elections in Rivers State that the emergency rule is scheduled to end on September 18, adding that President Tinubu is committed to a democratic resolution of the crisis.

What’s Next for Rivers State?

There is growing speculation that Governor Fubara may return to office once the emergency period lapses, though legal experts suggest the National Assembly and Presidency may play critical roles in determining the path forward, especially if tensions persist.

Political observers believe Wednesday’s meeting may be the beginning of a series of transition activities, as the federal government looks to avoid prolonged direct rule in one of the nation’s most economically vital states.

Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.