Breaking News: Tinubu, Fubara Meet Behind Closed Doors – What’s Really Going On?

Tensions in Nigeria’s oil-rich Rivers State may soon ease after weeks of political instability and protests, as President Bola Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara engaged in discreet diplomacy that could alter the region’s political landscape.

According to The Africa Report, President Tinubu and Governor Fubara, who was suspended on March 18, 2025, held a private meeting last week, as confirmed by two aides to the president. The meeting took place in London shortly after Tinubu’s return from Paris and was reportedly initiated by Fubara, who has been seeking to regain his position since the president declared a state of emergency in Rivers State.

A presidential adviser, speaking anonymously, confirmed to The Africa Report, “Yes, Governor Fubara met privately with the president last week. Fubara has promised to make some concessions. Negotiations are ongoing, and it appears his suspension will be lifted before the six-month deadline.”

In addition, Fubara is reportedly open to joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which could improve the APC’s chances in Rivers State. An aide explained, “If Fubara joins the APC, it will significantly enhance the president’s chances of securing Rivers State.”

However, Fubara’s estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, was reportedly not included in the meeting and is reportedly uneasy with the behind-the-scenes discussions. Nevertheless, Tinubu is expected to facilitate a meeting between Fubara, Wike, and Rivers State lawmakers to address the ongoing crisis.

The political unrest in Rivers State began after Fubara’s suspension by President Tinubu on March 18, following the explosion of two oil pipelines. The explosion was linked to a feud between Fubara and 27 state lawmakers loyal to Wike, who sought to impeach the governor over alleged constitutional violations, including his role in the bombing of the state parliament building.

In response, and given Nigeria’s heavy reliance on oil revenue, the Tinubu administration declared a state of emergency in Rivers State to prevent further instability, appointing former naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s sole administrator with full gubernatorial powers.

The declaration faced criticism from various groups, including labor unions, opposition parties, and the media. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar denounced the move as a “power grab” ahead of the 2027 election. However, Tinubu defended his decision, asserting his constitutional right to declare a state of emergency, despite having previously criticized a similar action by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005. The declaration was later endorsed by Nigeria’s parliament.