“Who is the president of Nigeria?” – VDM calls out Tinubu after suspending Gov Fubara and replaces him with Wike’s alleged friend, Vice Admiral Ibas (Video)

Nigerian activist VDM (VeryDarkMan) has raised serious concerns about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. In a video posted to social media, VDM questioned, “Who is the President of Nigeria?” following the controversial move that replaced Fubara with Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd). This article explores the incident, the responses, and the larger political implications.

Tinubu’s Suspension of Gov Fubara

On March 18th, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating insecurity, prolonged political turmoil, and governance paralysis. He suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly. The president justified this action as necessary to restore stability in the state.

In his nationwide broadcast, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas as the Administrator of Rivers State. Ibas is tasked with overseeing the state's affairs, but he is prohibited from making new laws, though he can formulate regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and the president.

VDM’s Bold Challenge to Tinubu

The decision sparked widespread debate. Activist VDM, who is known for his outspoken views, shared a video asking, “Who is the president of Nigeria?” VDM’s call-out stems from the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas, who, according to social media reports, has close ties to former Governor Nyesom Wike. Wike’s influence is evident as Ibas replaces Fubara, a governor who had previously worked with Wike but later sought independence.

The Wike-Fubara Conflict

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was elected in 2023, had initially aligned with Wike during the election campaign. However, tensions arose as Fubara began asserting his autonomy from Wike, leading to accusations of betrayal. Despite Fubara’s requests for federal intervention, Wike’s stronghold in Rivers State and his influence on the federal government remained unchallenged until the recent suspension.

The Appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas

Following Fubara’s removal, Vice Admiral Ibas (Rtd), a retired naval officer, was appointed the Administrator of Rivers State. The decision drew sharp criticism from many, particularly as photos emerged showing Ibas with Wike, suggesting a longstanding relationship. This connection raised suspicions about Wike's growing influence in Nigerian politics, as his ally now holds significant power in the state.

Public Reactions and Political Ramifications

The suspension of Fubara and appointment of Ibas has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria. While some support the president’s actions, believing they are necessary for restoring order in Rivers State, others, like VDM, view it as an overreach of executive power and an affront to democratic governance.

VDM’s remarks on Instagram reflect a broader concern about the concentration of power in the hands of a few political figures. “Why must Wike get whatever he wants? How can they suspend a sitting governor for six months and remove him from office?” he wrote, emphasizing the growing influence of Wike and the questionable decisions surrounding Fubara’s removal.

Conclusion: Who Holds the Power?

The question posed by VDM – “Who is the President of Nigeria?” – resonates with many Nigerians who are questioning the true dynamics of political power in the country. With Wike’s influence in the presidency and the suspension of a sitting governor, the nation is left grappling with the implications of these actions.

As the political landscape continues to shift, Nigerians must ask whether these decisions are in the best interest of the people or simply a power struggle among elites.

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🔹Tinubu's Official Speech on the State of Emergency