Fubara Under Fire: CUPP Says He’s Backstabbed Nigerians Who Defied Tinubu

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the recent statement by embattled Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who claimed that his “spirit” no longer resides in the Government House.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by CUPP’s National Secretary, Peter Ameh, the group criticized Fubara’s remarks as a betrayal of the wider constitutional struggle in Nigeria. CUPP argued that such a declaration, especially amid the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, weakens the collective effort to uphold the 1999 Constitution.

The group expressed disappointment that Fubara made such a critical statement without consulting stakeholders, stating that his words disregard the sacrifices of countless Nigerians who have been resisting the imposition of an emergency rule in the state.

CUPP urged Fubara to reconsider his stance and realign with the will of the people, especially those who are fighting to defend democracy.

The statement read in part:
“The CUPP strongly condemns the recent comment by suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who on May 11, 2025, declared that his ‘spirit has already left the Government House’ and indicated he would not return even if reinstated.

“This statement, coming in the wake of the unconstitutional state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18—which ousted Fubara, his deputy, and the entire State Assembly—sabotages the struggle to protect Nigeria’s constitutional order.

“CUPP views Fubara’s submission as a betrayal of the millions who stood against Tinubu’s authoritarian actions. The matter has never been about Fubara personally—it has always been about safeguarding democratic principles.

“The imposition of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as sole administrator was broadly rejected by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the PDP, and several civil society organizations as illegal and undemocratic.

“Under the Constitution, elected officials cannot be suspended arbitrarily without following due process, such as impeachment via Section 188. The actions taken by Tinubu have been challenged at the Supreme Court by seven PDP governors, SERAP, and the CNPP, who described them as unconstitutional and a direct attack on democracy.

“For many Nigerians, including CUPP, this battle has been about defending the rights of voters and democratic institutions—not about protecting any individual. Fubara’s remarks diminish that effort and demoralize the citizens and legal advocates fighting to preserve the rule of law.”