Thousands gathered at Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday to welcome Governor Siminalayi Fubara following the end of a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State but returned home disheartened as he did not appear. The postponement of his resumption has raised speculation about political negotiations and tensions that have marked the state’s recent history.
Governor Fubara was expected to resume office on Thursday after President Bola Tinubu lifted the special administrative period imposed on March 18, which ended Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas’s role as sole administrator. The emergency intervention was enforced to quell intense political unrest fueled by a rift between Fubara and former governor and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, which had fractured the state legislature and driven violent confrontations, including a fire at the Assembly building. Despite the peace efforts by President Tinubu then, tensions remained high, with threats directed at critical oil facilities calling for the impeachment of Fubara.
Yesterday, throngs of Fubara’s supporters gathered at the government complex along Azikiwe Street, many arriving from across the state, chanting and celebrating the anticipated return. Women’s groups donned uniforms bearing the governor’s image, and multiple bands played jubilant songs. However, as the afternoon progressed without Fubara’s appearance, the crowd slowly dispersed, visibly disappointed. Key allies, including former commissioners and local government chairmen recently removed following court decisions, were present and actively contacting the governor’s aides to clarify the situation.
Sources reveal that delays stem from tense negotiations over key government appointments. Reports alleged that Wike’s faction demands control over crucial positions such as the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, and a majority of commissioner slots. This impasse reportedly prolonged the governor’s absence, with no confirmed resolution by Thursday evening. Wike publicly denied attempts to interfere with the governor’s leadership, emphasizing that being sworn in does not obligate an immediate office resumption.
Dawn Herald reported that the Rivers State House of Assembly resumed activities yesterday with calls for Fubara to promptly submit commissioner nominees for confirmation and present a revised budget reflecting current conditions. Speaker Martins Amaewhule praised the restoration of democratic institutions and pledged cooperation to maintain constitutional governance and peace. The Assembly also intends to scrutinize expenditures during the emergency period to ensure accountability.
Outgoing administrator Ibas, in a farewell broadcast, affirmed that stability had been partially restored, citing conducted local elections, reactivated boards, and established budgets as achievements. He urged continuous vigilance, dialogue, and unity to prevent regression, noting lessons learned about the dangers of unchecked power and political rivalry. His final act included appointing a substantive Head of Service, a move that faced critique for perceived favoritism.
Prominent elders, led by former Governor Rufus Ada-George through the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, appealed for peace and collaboration among political factions. They urged the state to embrace forgiveness, rebuild trust, and prioritize collective progress over division, emphasizing on Rivers State’s rich diversity and shared destiny. The forum encouraged citizens to reject violence and support lawful administration to foster sustainable development and harmony.
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