Fubara withdraws reinstatement of Rumuepirikom traditional ruler amid stool dispute

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has recently revoked the reinstatement of the Rumuepirikom traditional ruler in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, following a prolonged dispute over the position. The governor issued the withdrawal order through Permanent Secretary Ndukue Patrick, addressing the earlier letter and certificate granted to Eze Anthony Amaezuruike Aaron Owabie, Nye-Nwe-Eli Rumuepirikom.

Fubara utilized his authority under Section 17 of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Law No. 4 of 2015 to approve the withdrawal, which will take effect immediately. This decision is linked to the historic disagreement over the Rumuepirikom traditional rulership, a conflict that intensified during the political struggle between Fubara and Nyesom Wike, a former Governor of Rivers State and current Federal Capital Territory Minister.

The issue escalated when Fubara appointed a different individual as the traditional ruler amid the political turmoil, further fueling the dispute. The governor's recent action occurs as reports suggest a thaw in the strained relations between him and Wike, leading to speculation about whether Fubara is reconsidering certain choices made during the peak of their political conflict.