Why Atiku Says Fubara’s Reinstatement Is Still No Victory for Democracy

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu's reinstatement of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state lawmakers, saying the end of their suspension is “nothing to cheer about.”


On 18 March 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State amid a protracted clash between Governor Fubara and lawmakers loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike. He suspended the governor, deputy governor Ngozi Odu, the State House of Assembly, and installed a sole administrator for six months.


On 17 September 2025, the emergency rule elapsed, and Tinubu lifted the suspension, directing Fubara, his deputy, and the legislators to resume their duties effective 18 September.


Atiku argues that the original suspension was unconstitutional and remains illegal even after its lifting. He claims Tinubu had no authority under the law to suspend a democratically elected governor or lawmakers. He further described the suspension and restoration process as indicative of creeping authoritarianism under the Tinubu administration.


The controversy raises important constitutional questions about the power of the presidency to suspend elected officials at the state level, especially when state institutions are part of the dispute. Politically, the episode has sparked debate about the balance of power between state and federal government, as well as the role of democracy and the rule of law in crisis situations.


While Fubara and the lawmakers are legally back in office, for Atiku the issue is not over, the concern is about setting precedent for federal overreach that could undermine democratic institutions.

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