In a significant legal blow to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed his suit seeking to unseat 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who are loyal to former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The lawmakers were accused of defecting from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The dismissal came after Fubara’s lead counsel, Yusuf Ali (SAN), surprisingly withdrew the appeal, citing that “events have overtaken the matter” and describing the lawmakers as “our friends,” hinting at a possible reconciliation.

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), representing the lawmakers and Speaker Martin Amaewhule, did not oppose the withdrawal but urged the court for an outright dismissal, arguing that both parties had already filed and exchanged legal briefs.
The three-man panel, led by Justice Musa Uwani-Aba-Aji, agreed and dismissed the suit, awarding N4 million in costs against Governor Fubara to be paid to the Assembly and its Speaker.

This ruling solidifies the legal standing of the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers, who have been at the center of a political crisis in Rivers State. Addressing journalists after the court session, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Ken Njemanze, stated that the decision clears the path for the lawmakers to fully reclaim their legislative powers.
“All actions taken by Governor Fubara, including the presentation of the 2024 and 2025 budgets to just three lawmakers, are now null and void,” Njemanze said.
This Supreme Court decision follows a series of earlier defeats for Fubara. In October 2024, the Court of Appeal dismissed a similar appeal, and in January 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, nullified the passage of the state’s N800 billion 2024 budget by four lawmakers loyal to Fubara, describing it as illegal and unconstitutional.

Justice Omotosho had also criticized Fubara’s actions, including the partial demolition of the Assembly complex and withholding of legislative funds, calling them tyrannical. The judge ordered the governor to re-present the budget to the Amaewhule-led Assembly and restrained him from interfering with the lawmakers’ duties.
With this Supreme Court ruling, the political dynamics in Rivers State are set to shift dramatically, as the pro-Wike faction tightens its grip on the legislative arm, further complicating Governor Fubara’s administration.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara that the political challenges he is currently facing will ultimately strengthen him as a leader.
Jonathan made this remark on Sunday at the Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture in Nihi Community, Etche Local Government Area, during the 10th anniversary of the coronation of Eze Nwala, the Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem.

Jonathan, who was also honored with the chieftaincy title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche, urged Rivers residents to stand by Fubara, emphasizing that adversity is part of leadership.
“Nobody becomes a general without fighting battles,” Jonathan said. “These challenges are shaping you, and with the support of the people and God’s guidance, you will emerge stronger.”

The former president warned that unrest in Rivers State, the heart of the Niger Delta, could have far-reaching effects on the nation’s economy.
He called for peace, noting that political offices are temporary. “Allow the governor to fulfill his mandate. After his tenure, others will have their turn,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan praised the agricultural contributions of Etche, calling it the “food basket of the state,” and commended Eze Nwala for a decade of impactful leadership. Eze Nwala reflected on his reign, highlighting milestones in the development of Etche land.
Governor Fubara, who was conferred with the title Dike Oha 1 of Etche by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers, expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Etche and Ikwerre people.
He pledged to continue delivering developmental projects, including ongoing road reconstructions in Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities.

“Your support means everything to me, and I am committed to justifying the trust you have placed in me,” Fubara said.
He also thanked Jonathan for his mentorship and steadfast support during difficult times.

The event underscored the cultural richness of the Etche people and reinforced the call for peace and unity in Rivers State amid political tensions.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has credited God with turning recent political challenges into a source of strength, guiding the state toward a new era of growth, development, and political freedom.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service held in honor of His Royal Majesty, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, Eze Oha Apara IV, Fubara emphasized his unwavering faith that God’s purpose is at work amid Rivers State’s challenges.
He said what his detractors meant for evil God has turned around for the good of Rivers State.
The Thanksgiving Service took place at the Shepherd’s Hill Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Mgbuoba Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where parish leaders presented Fubara with copies of the Holy Bible.
In his address, Fubara expressed gratitude, stating that what his detractors intended for harm, God had used to elevate his administration and bolster the government’s resolve.

“Many called it trouble, but I see it as God’s purpose for a new direction for our state,” Fubara remarked.
“Rather than growing weak, we are becoming stronger and bolder each day. With God’s guidance, we are committed to completing our work and standing firmly for Him.”

The governor further underscored the power of gratitude in gaining clarity and assurance, especially during challenging times.
He expressed joy in joining the Wodo family in offering thanks to God and celebrated Eze Chike Worlu Wodo’s appointment as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council. Fubara noted the enthusiasm with which Eze Wodo worshipped, comparing it to King David’s joyful dancing before God in the Bible.

“It’s one of the reasons God loved King David,” Fubara said. “Even as a traditional ruler, you still hold God in the highest esteem. God will continue to lift you beyond human imagination.”

As part of his support for the church’s work, Governor Fubara donated ₦100 million to assist in its evangelism efforts, dedicating the donation as a tribute to Eze Wodo’s faith and commitment.

Fubara concluded by urging the church to continue praying for his administration and for the peace of Rivers State, assuring that while human perspectives may see challenges, God’s plan will prevail.
He likened prayers to deposits in a bank, saying, “There is no prayer God does not answer.”