A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to forgive the suspended Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, as Nigeria prepares to celebrate Democracy Day on June 12.
George's appeal comes in the wake of Tinubu's recent reconciliation with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, suggesting that the same spirit of forgiveness should be extended to Fubara.
Background of Fubara's Suspension
President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara for six months on March 18, 2025, following an escalating political crisis in Rivers State. The suspension led to the declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment of a sole administrator to manage the state's affairs.
The crisis stemmed from a power struggle between Fubara and key stakeholders in the state over the control of political resources. Three months into his suspension, Fubara visited President Tinubu and his predecessor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, in an apparent move toward reconciliation.
Parallels with Sanwo-Olu Situation
Bode George drew parallels between Fubara's situation and the recent rift between President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu, which became public when the president snubbed the Lagos governor during an official function. That issue was subsequently resolved following a meeting of the Governor's Advisory Council in Lagos, with Tinubu reportedly forgiving Sanwo-Olu.
"If Tinubu could forgive Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, then he should extend the same gesture to Fubara," George stated.
Democracy Day Connection
The PDP chieftain strategically tied his appeal to the upcoming June 12 Democracy Day celebrations, emphasizing the symbolic importance of the occasion.
"On June 12, we will be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people," George remarked, suggesting that reconciliation would align with the democratic values being commemorated.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State 2025 budget of N1.48 trillion reportedly targets Fubara's return, according to statements made to federal lawmakers.
Stay updated on this developing story by following BenriNews on our social media platforms:
