A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George has called on President Bola Tinubu to reinstate suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as Nigeria marks Democracy Day on June 12.

The PDP chieftain made the request in an open letter commemorating the 32nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Fubara was suspended from office on March 18, 2025, by President Tinubu following deepening political unrest in Rivers State. His removal led to the imposition of emergency rule and the appointment of a sole administrator to manage the state’s affairs.

George urged Tinubu to act in the spirit of national healing and forgiveness, citing the President’s recent decision to forgive Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“On June 12, we’ll be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people,” George wrote.

Referring to Tinubu’s earlier act of political reconciliation, George said, “Since Tinubu has forgiven Sanwo-Olu, then it makes a lot of sense, spiritually, to also forgive Fubara and let him return to office. I’m talking as an elder.”

The PDP chieftain also recounted Tinubu’s pro-democracy efforts during Nigeria’s military era.

“Let me also remind the President that he was in the forefront of those who fought the military, seeking a return to civilian rule.

“I still remember him coming to my office in Aso Rock when he wanted to see General Diya. That was during the General Sani Abacha regime. He wanted to be deputy to Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Lagos then.

“He discussed with Diya but General Abacha eventually gave the position to Mrs. Okunnu. I know how passionate Tinubu was then about the return to civil rule. He later joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) to fight for democracy. Some of those who fought alongside him for democracy have died. It’s not of his making that he is alive today.

“So, he should thank God, honour the memory of those who fought alongside him for democracy and return Fubara to office immediately.”

“I also appeal to him, in the spirit of my maternal grand uncle who founded the first political party in Nigeria in 1922, Herbert Macaulay, to please reinstate Fubara.

“Tinubu should listen to, and honour this appeal in memory of all those who died in the journey to our democracy,” George added.