Siminalayi Fubara has emerged as one of the prominent political figures in Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region.
As the Governor of Rivers State, his journey from a dedicated civil servant to a top political leader reflects resilience, loyalty, and strategic growth.
Known for his calm demeanor and administrative competence, Fubaraโs profile has attracted national attentionโnot just for his political rise, but also for the recent controversies and challenges surrounding his tenure.
This biography offers a detailed insight into his age, early life, career achievements, marital life, and the current trending issues that have placed him in the spotlight.
Early Life and Career Path
Siminalayi Fubara (born January 28, 1975) is a Nigerian politician and professional accountant currently serving as the Governor of Rivers State, a position he assumed in 2023.
Prior to becoming governor, he held the role of Accountant General for the state from 2020 until 2022.
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the stateโs legislature due to ongoing unresolved political tensions in the state.
Fubara hails from the Ibani-Ijaw ethnic group and was born in Opobo Town, located within the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Education
Siminalayi Fubara was born in Opobo Town, situated in the Opobo-Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State.
He began his early education at Opobo Primary School and later attended Comprehensive Secondary School, also in Opobo.
Following his secondary education, he enrolled at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, where he earned a degree in Accountancy.
Fubara furthered his academic journey at the University of Port Harcourt, obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2013 and a Master of Science (MSc) degree in 2016.
Career
Fubara began his professional journey in 2003 as a Principal Accountant with the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board.
His career progressed steadily, and by 2015 he had become the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Rivers State Government House.
In March 2020, he was elevated to the position of Permanent Secretary. Later that year, on December 23, 2020, he was appointed as the Accountant General of Rivers State, a role he held until May 2022.
He stepped down after winning the Peopleโs Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary ahead of the 2023 general elections.
He is a distinguished Fellow of both the Nigerian Institute of Management and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria.
Projects
As Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara approved a contract worth โฆ195.3 billion with construction giant Julius Berger for the development of the Port Harcourt Ring Road project.
Once completed, the road is expected to pass through six local government areas, significantly easing traffic congestion in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara also revealed that the state government would make an advance payment of over โฆ150 billion to support the projectโs timely execution.
Suspension
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, invoking constitutional powers to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire State House of Assembly.
The President cited prolonged political unrest and a deepening crisis that, according to him, had disrupted governance and posed a threat to national stability.
In a national address, Tinubu emphasized that the decision was necessary to restore order and ensure the continuity of democratic processes in the state.
โ๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง, ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ง๐จ๐ซ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ญ๐๐ญ๐, ๐๐ซ ๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ข ๐ ๐ฎ๐๐๐ซ๐, ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฒ, ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ ๐จ๐ณ๐ข ๐๐๐ฎ, ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฆ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐ก๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฒ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ง ๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฑ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ก๐ฌ.โ
After declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok Ekwe Ibas, as the Sole Administrator to oversee the stateโs affairs during the emergency period.
This action was taken under the provisions of Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants the President authority to declare a state of emergency under specific circumstances and to exercise special powers in response to threats to peace and stability.
In response to Tinubuโs decision, seven state governmentsโled by governors from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)โfiled a lawsuit at the Supreme Court.
They challenged the legality of the Presidentโs suspension of Rivers Stateโs elected officials, arguing that such a move violated constitutional provisions.
The plaintiffs contended that the President lacked the constitutional authority to suspend a duly elected governor and deputy governor, and also questioned the validity of the National Assemblyโs endorsement of the emergency rule.
They requested the court to declare Tinubuโs actions unconstitutional and to void the appointment of a sole administrator.
Legal experts note that this case could become a landmark ruling, as Nigeriaโs 1999 Constitution has yet to be tested on the legality of removing elected officials through emergency declarations.
A key issue for the Supreme Court will be determining whether the suing states have the legal standing to bring the case, given that they were not directly impacted by the declaration.
Controversy
In May 2022, Siminalayi Fubara, along with 58 other government officials, was declared a wanted person by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an alleged โฆ435 billion fraud.
Fubara was also implicated in a separate โฆ117 billion fraud case involving four other Rivers State government officials.
The EFCC brought additional charges against him, including criminal conspiracy, money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and abuse of office.
Personal Life
Siminalayi Fubara is the second of five children and the eldest son of the late Joseph Fubara, a former soldier who had international military training, and the late Love Fubara, a civil servant.
He is a knight in the St. Christopher Order of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. Additionally, Fubara holds the traditional title of Amaopu-Senibo of Opobo Kingdom. He is married to Valerie Fubara, and together they have three children.
Political Ascent and Governorship of Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubaraโs journey into politics began after a distinguished career in public service, where he made his mark as an experienced accountant and government official.
His entry into political life was shaped by years of working in various financial roles within Rivers Stateโs government, gradually earning recognition for his leadership and dedication to the stateโs development.
Fubaraโs political ascent began when he was appointed as the Accountant General of Rivers State in December 2020, a position he held until May 2022.
His tenure as the stateโs chief financial officer was marked by efforts to streamline public finances and improve transparency in government spending.
As he became more entrenched in the administrative workings of the state, Fubaraโs influence grew, positioning him as a key figure within the stateโs political landscape.
In May 2022, following his time as Accountant General, Fubara took a significant step forward in his political career by securing the Peopleโs Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket for the 2023 general elections.
His candidacy was seen as a natural progression, given his extensive public sector experience and his close ties with the political elite in Rivers State.
His victory in the PDP primary solidified his standing as the partyโs frontrunner in the governorship race.
Fubaraโs bid for the governorship was bolstered by his promise of continued progress for Rivers State, particularly focusing on infrastructural development, economic stability, and improved governance.
He leveraged his background in accountancy to emphasize fiscal responsibility and economic reforms. This resonated with many voters, especially in a state that had witnessed rapid economic changes in recent years.
In 2023, Fubara was elected Governor of Rivers State, following a competitive election cycle. Upon taking office, he quickly set about implementing his vision for the state, focusing on large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at improving mobility and reducing congestion in Port Harcourt, the stateโs commercial hub.
Notably, his administration signed a โฆ195.3 billion contract with Julius Berger for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road, a major project aimed at decongesting the city.
However, his tenure has not been without controversy. In March 2025, political instability in Rivers State led to the suspension of Fubara by President Bola Tinubu, who declared a state of emergency in the state.
This move, which saw Fubara, his deputy, and the state legislature suspended, was a response to ongoing political tensions that the President deemed as a threat to national stability.
Despite the challenges, Fubara remains a central figure in the political landscape of Rivers State, with his tenure continuing to unfold amid both support and opposition.
Policy Initiatives and Development Projects of Siminalayi Fubara
Since assuming office as the Governor of Rivers State in 2023, Siminalayi Fubara has introduced a series of policy initiatives and development projects aimed at advancing the stateโs economic growth, infrastructural development, and overall well-being of its citizens.
His approach to governance emphasizes sustainable growth, fiscal responsibility, and enhancing the stateโs competitive edge within Nigeria.
One of the cornerstone initiatives of Fubaraโs administration is the commitment to improving the stateโs infrastructure, particularly in urban areas like Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Under his leadership, the Rivers State government embarked on the ambitious Port Harcourt Ring Road project, signing a โฆ195.3 billion contract with Julius Berger.
This project aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the city by constructing a network of roads that will span across six local government areas. Once completed, the project is expected to greatly ease the movement of goods and people, boosting both local commerce and the broader state economy.
In addition to transportation infrastructure, Fubara has prioritized the provision of affordable housing for Rivers State residents.
His administration has rolled out several housing projects designed to meet the growing demand for residential properties in the state.
These projects are not only expected to provide thousands of affordable homes but also create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
Fubaraโs focus on education has also been evident in his policy decisions. His administration has sought to enhance the quality of education in Rivers State by upgrading schools, providing training for teachers, and improving educational facilities.
There has also been a strong emphasis on making education more accessible, especially in rural areas, through the construction of new schools and provision of educational materials.
In terms of economic development, Fubara has worked towards diversifying the stateโs economy beyond its reliance on oil.
His administration has fostered initiatives that encourage investment in agriculture, technology, and tourism.
By promoting these sectors, Fubara aims to create more jobs, reduce unemployment, and ensure long-term economic sustainability for the state.
Healthcare is another priority for Fubaraโs government. His administration has invested in the improvement of healthcare facilities, ensuring better access to quality healthcare services for Rivers State residents.
This includes the construction and renovation of hospitals, as well as the training of medical professionals to meet the growing demand for healthcare services across the state.
Fubaraโs policies are not just limited to infrastructural development and economic growth. He has also taken steps to enhance governance transparency and accountability.
His administration has worked on reforms to improve the management of public funds, with a strong focus on eliminating corruption and ensuring that government projects deliver value to the people.
Despite the challenges that have marked his time in office, Fubaraโs commitment to the development of Rivers State remains unwavering.
His ongoing projects and policy initiatives reflect his vision for a prosperous, well-governed, and equitable state.
Political Challenges and State of Emergency of Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubaraโs tenure as Governor of Rivers State has been marked by significant political challenges, which have tested his leadership and ability to navigate complex state and national dynamics.
While his administration has made strides in infrastructure, governance, and development, political instability within the state reached a peak in 2025, leading to the unprecedented declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.
One of the major political challenges Fubara faced was managing the intricate power dynamics within the state.
Rivers State, known for its rich political history and diverse political interests, is often a battleground for various factions, both within and outside the ruling Peopleโs Democratic Party (PDP).
Throughout his time in office, Fubara struggled to maintain unity within the stateโs political leadership, which contributed to tensions between his administration and other political groups, including the opposition and even some factions within his own party.
These internal divisions were compounded by the growing dissatisfaction with the stateโs political climate.
The political unrest, marked by clashes between key political figures, protest movements, and allegations of corruption, created an environment of instability that began to paralyze governance in the state.
The perception of a weak political structure, coupled with accusations of mismanagement, led to widespread public concern and frustration, further eroding the administrationโs legitimacy.
On March 18, 2025, in response to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu invoked his constitutional powers to declare a state of emergency.
This decision suspended Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly, citing the intense political instability that had disrupted governance and posed a threat to national stability.
The move, which granted the President extraordinary powers over the state, was viewed as a drastic but necessary intervention to restore order and ensure that state governance could continue functioning effectively.
The declaration of a state of emergency set off a wave of legal challenges, as several state governments, particularly those led by opposition parties, questioned the constitutionality of the Presidentโs actions.
They argued that the President had overstepped his authority by suspending democratically elected officials and that the National Assemblyโs approval of the state of emergency was invalid.
This legal battle became a focal point for debates on the balance of power between the federal government and state governments in Nigeria.
The political fallout from the state of emergency was far-reaching. While some viewed the Presidentโs intervention as a necessary step to restore order, others saw it as a direct attack on the democratic process and the will of the people of Rivers State.
ย Analysts have since noted that this crisis has the potential to reshape political relations in Nigeria, particularly regarding the limits of emergency rule and the powers of elected officials.
Fubaraโs political challenges continue to unfold, and the ultimate resolution of the legal disputes and his future in office will likely have lasting implications for the governance of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.
His administrationโs ability to weather these challenges will depend on the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings and his capacity to navigate the turbulent political waters ahead.
Leadership Style and Public Engagement of Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubaraโs leadership style is characterized by a blend of methodical pragmatism, fiscal discipline, and a strong commitment to public welfare.
As Governor of Rivers State, Fubara has focused on building an administration that prioritizes transparency, effective management of state resources, and the delivery of key development projects that impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
His background in accountancy has greatly influenced his leadership approach, emphasizing sound financial management and accountability in governance.
Fubaraโs leadership is often described as collaborative, seeking to involve various stakeholders in decision-making processes.
He has demonstrated a preference for consensus-building, especially within his administration and the stateโs political structures.
His approach has earned him a reputation as a leader who values teamwork and the collective input of both public officials and citizens in shaping the stateโs policies and future direction.
A key aspect of Fubaraโs leadership style is his focus on infrastructural development as a means of fostering economic growth.
By prioritizing projects like the Port Harcourt Ring Road and other large-scale infrastructural ventures, Fubara has demonstrated a vision for long-term development.
His strategic emphasis on transportation and housing has not only contributed to economic expansion but also improved the living conditions of the stateโs residents.
Through these initiatives, Fubara has sought to ensure that Rivers State remains competitive within Nigeriaโs evolving economic landscape.
In terms of public engagement, Fubara has maintained an accessible and approachable image, regularly interacting with citizens through town halls, social media platforms, and public meetings.
His administration has been active in soliciting public feedback on key issues affecting the state, ensuring that the voices of Rivers State residents are heard and considered in the policymaking process.
This public engagement has been critical in fostering trust between the government and the people, as it helps address concerns and provides a platform for dialogue.
Fubaraโs use of social media, in particular, has been a tool for enhancing communication with the public.
By leveraging digital platforms, he has been able to directly communicate his policies, project updates, and achievements to a broad audience, circumventing traditional media channels.
This has allowed him to engage with younger, tech-savvy constituents while also maintaining transparency in his administrationโs operations.
Moreover, Fubara has recognized the importance of addressing the needs of both urban and rural populations in Rivers State.
While his government has focused on urban infrastructure projects, he has also worked to ensure that rural communities receive attention, particularly in terms of education, healthcare, and access to basic services.
This dual focus on both urban and rural development highlights his inclusive leadership style, ensuring that the benefits of progress are shared across all sectors of society.
Despite facing significant political challenges during his tenure, Fubara has continued to exhibit resilience in his leadership, working to maintain stability and drive the development of the state even amidst adversity.
His efforts to balance effective governance with public engagement have helped solidify his reputation as a leader dedicated to improving the quality of life for the people of Rivers State.
Controversies and Legal Challenges of Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubaraโs time as Governor of Rivers State has not been without its controversies and legal challenges, which have significantly shaped his public image and political journey.
While his administration has overseen significant infrastructural development and other policy initiatives, certain issues have led to intense scrutiny, legal disputes, and political unrest, casting a shadow over his leadership.
One of the most notable controversies occurred in May 2022, when Fubara, along with 58 other government officials, was declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC accused him of being involved in a massive โฆ435 billion fraud, one of the largest financial scandals in the stateโs history.
In addition to these charges, Fubara faced accusations of a separate โฆ117 billion fraud, alongside other key officials of the Rivers State government.
The charges also included criminal conspiracy, money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and abuse of office.
The allegations brought severe public backlash and raised concerns about governance in Rivers State under his leadership.
Despite the charges, Fubara denied any wrongdoing, and the legal proceedings surrounding these allegations have remained a point of tension within his administration.
The legal challenges escalated when, in March 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to what was described as โintense political instabilityโ within the state.
This political crisis had been brewing for months, with rising tensions between Fubaraโs administration and various political factions.
In response to these mounting issues, the President suspended Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the entire state legislature, citing the disruption of governance and the growing risk to national stability.
The move sparked widespread debate and controversy, with many questioning the legality of the Presidentโs actions and the implications for democratic governance in Nigeria.
Following the declaration of a state of emergency, the legal and political repercussions deepened. Several state governments, led by opposition figures, filed a lawsuit at Nigeriaโs Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the Presidentโs decision.
The plaintiffs argued that the President lacked the authority to suspend democratically elected officials and that the state of emergency declaration was unconstitutional.
The case has garnered significant attention, as it could set a precedent for how emergency rule is applied to remove elected officials in Nigeria.
The outcome of the case remains uncertain, and it has added to the ongoing legal battles that Fubara has had to face.
Beyond the legal challenges tied to the state of emergency, Fubaraโs leadership has been further tested by the political fallout of these controversies.
Public opinion on his administration has been sharply divided, with some supporting his efforts to bring stability to the state, while others criticize his leadership and handling of the political crisis.
As these controversies continue to unfold, the legal battles surrounding Fubaraโs tenure could have far-reaching implications, not just for his own future, but for the broader political landscape in Rivers State and Nigeria.
In conclusion, the controversies and legal challenges that Siminalayi Fubara has faced highlight the complexities of governance in a politically charged environment.
While he has made strides in development, his time as governor has been marked by legal disputes, accusations of corruption, and an ongoing battle to maintain control in a turbulent political climate.
Personal Life and Values of Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has lived a life that combines a deep sense of responsibility to his family, community, and the people of Rivers State with his commitment to the values of service and integrity.
While much of the public attention has focused on his political career, Fubaraโs personal life and core values play a significant role in shaping his leadership and approach to governance.
Born in Opobo Town in Rivers State, Fubara comes from a family with a rich history of public service. He is the second of five children and the first son of the late Joseph Fubara, a former soldier, and the late Love Fubara, a civil servant.
His upbringing in a family dedicated to service and discipline has clearly influenced his worldview and leadership style. Raised with the understanding of the importance of hard work, duty, and honor, Fubara has carried these values into his political career.
Fubara is a deeply spiritual individual. He holds the traditional title of Amaopu-Senibo of Opobo Kingdom, which reflects his close ties to his heritage and his respect for cultural values.
He is also a Knight of St. Christopher (KSC) in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, underscoring his strong commitment to his faith and the Christian community.
This spiritual commitment informs his moral compass and guides his decisions, both in his personal life and in his professional duties as governor.
Family is a central pillar of Fubaraโs personal life. He is married to Valerie Fubara, and the couple has three children. Fubara often speaks about the importance of family and how his personal experiences as a father and husband shape his approach to leadership.
His belief in the strength of family values is reflected in his policy initiatives, particularly in his focus on improving the living conditions of families through initiatives like affordable housing, education, and healthcare services. For Fubara, the well-being of the family unit is key to fostering social stability and progress.
Fubaraโs leadership is also defined by his commitment to transparency, integrity, and public service. These values have been evident in his governance, as he has worked to promote responsible management of state resources and reduce corruption.
Although his administration has faced legal challenges and allegations of misconduct, Fubara has maintained that his actions are driven by a sense of duty to the people of Rivers State, and he has vowed to continue pursuing policies that improve the lives of residents in both urban and rural areas.
In terms of his public persona, Fubara is known for his calm and composed demeanor, which has helped him navigate the often turbulent waters of politics in Rivers State.
He prioritizes dialogue and consensus-building, seeking to foster unity among various political factions and stakeholders.
This approach is rooted in his belief that governance should not only be about politics but also about creating a peaceful, prosperous environment for future generations.
Overall, Siminalayi Fubaraโs personal life and values play a fundamental role in shaping his leadership. His family background, religious faith, and commitment to service form the foundation of his public persona.
As he continues to face the challenges of leading Rivers State, these values guide his decisions and his ongoing efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people he serves.
Trending of Siminalayi Fubara
State of Emergency in Rivers State
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to escalating political unrest and a rise in pipeline vandalism.
This unprecedented action led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the stateโs legislative assembly.
The emergency declaration granted President Tinubu extraordinary powers to manage the stateโs affairs for six months, with the aim of restoring order and stabilizing the region.
Impeachment Threats and Allegations
Amid the political turmoil, the Rivers State House of Assembly levied 19 serious allegations against Governor Fubara.
These accusations included disregarding court orders and operating without an approved 2024 state budget.
These charges further exacerbated the political instability in the state, deepening divisions and intensifying the calls for Fubaraโs impeachment.
Critics argue that his actions have undermined the stateโs governance, leading to an environment of chaos and dysfunction.
Meeting Between Fubara and President Tinubu in London
Reports later emerged suggesting that Governor Fubara met with President Tinubu in London. This meeting sparked speculation regarding Fubaraโs potential political shift.
There was growing talk that Fubara might defect from his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that could significantly alter the political landscape in Rivers State.
However, the details of the discussions and the potential implications of such a defection remain unclear, fueling further political speculation in Nigeria.
Public Reactions and Protests
In the wake of the state of emergency declaration, protests erupted across Rivers State. Many citizens, particularly those loyal to Governor Fubara, voiced their anger over what they perceived as an unconstitutional move by the President.
Fubara condemned the heavy-handed tactics used by the police to disperse protestors and called for restraint.
He appealed to the people of Rivers State to remain calm and united, urging them to avoid violence and work together for the peace and progress of the state.
His comments were a call for solidarity amidst the turmoil, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in the face of political challenges.
Appointment of Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator
Following the suspension of Governor Fubara and his officials, President Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State.
This decision has been met with a range of reactions. Supporters of the state of emergency hailed the appointment as a necessary step toward restoring order, while critics argue that the move undermines democratic processes.
The appointment of Ibas, a highly regarded former military officer, signals the Presidentโs intent to manage the state directly, but it also raises concerns about the future of democracy in Rivers State and the broader implications for Nigeriaโs political stability.
Conclusion:
Siminalayi Fubaraโs life and career represent a compelling narrative of determination, service, and leadership in a complex political landscape.
From his roots in public service to his current role as Governor, Fubara continues to shape the political discourse in Rivers State.
Despite facing recent challenges and political turbulence, he remains a central figure in the stateโs governance and development.
As events unfold, Nigerians and political watchers alike remain keen on how he navigates the pressures of leadership while striving to deliver on his mandate.