Uncertainty clouded Rivers State on Thursday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara failed to appear at the Government House, Port Harcourt, despite expectations that he would resume office following the end of emergency rule.
President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday announced the termination of the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state in March, declaring that Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the House of Assembly would return to their offices from September 18. The declaration ended the tenure of retired naval chief, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who had served as sole administrator.
The announcement sparked jubilation across Port Harcourt, with thousands of Fubara’s supporters trooping to the Government House as early as 6 a.m. on Thursday. Women’s groups in colourful attire, live bands, and political allies of the governor created a carnival-like atmosphere, waiting for his much-anticipated return.
But as hours passed, Fubara’s convoy never arrived. By 2 p.m., many supporters dispersed in disappointment, wearing long faces. Some of his allies, including former commissioners and sacked local government chairmen, were seen making frantic calls to confirm his whereabouts.
Former Commissioner for Power, Solomon Eke, however, insisted that the massive turnout reflected the governor’s popularity. “This is a spontaneous action; it was not organised. People came out because of the love they have for him,” he said.
The absence of Fubara has rekindled anxiety in a state still reeling from his protracted feud with predecessor-turned-rival, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Their fallout plunged the state into political chaos, leading to impeachment threats, protests, and violence before Tinubu’s emergency intervention.
An aide to the governor later disclosed that Fubara was in Abuja and would return to Port Harcourt on Friday.
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