By Erewunmi Peace

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, as a member of its National Convention Organising Committee.

The appointment, announced this week, comes even as Fubara remains under suspension following the state of emergency declared in Rivers on March 18, 2025 by President Bola Tinubu. The suspension is expected to last until September 17, 2025.

According to the PDP, the organising committee will oversee preparations for the party’s upcoming national convention, scheduled for November 15–16, 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Fubara’s inclusion has sparked discussions within political circles, as it underscores the PDP’s continued recognition of his political weight despite his current suspension from state office.

The governor was suspended earlier this year after months of political tension and insecurity in Rivers State, which led the Federal Government to impose emergency rule in the oil-rich state.

While Fubara has not publicly reacted to the new appointment, observers say the move reflects the PDP’s strategy to rally unity and demonstrate internal solidarity ahead of the crucial convention.

The PDP is expected to use the November convention to elect new national officers and strengthen its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.