Recently reinstated Rivers governor Siminalayi Fubara has paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu at the presidential villa in Abuja.

The Monday evening meeting marked his first official trip to the State House since his reinstatement after the six-month emergency rule imposed in Rivers.

Fubara’s arrival at about 6:20 p.m. was confirmed by aides and officials stationed at the villa entrance.

The governor, dressed in a simple outfit, proceeded directly to the president’s office for closed-door talks.

Emergency rule aftermath

Fubara was reinstated following President Tinubu’s declaration that the period of emergency rule in Rivers had achieved its purpose.

During the six months, federal administrators controlled the state’s affairs, citing political tension and governance breakdown.

The reinstatement has been welcomed by supporters who see it as a restoration of democratic order.

However, critics argue that Rivers’ political stability remains fragile and could face further tests in the months ahead.

What next for Rivers

Details of the private meeting between Fubara and Tinubu were not disclosed at the time of filing this report.

Sources around the presidency said discussions likely centred on peacebuilding, governance priorities, and reconciliation with opposing factions.

Observers believe Tinubu’s handling of Rivers will be closely watched as a test case for balancing federal authority and state autonomy.

The governor is expected to return to Port Harcourt in the coming days to formally resume duties at the state secretariat.