Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Thursday failed to resume office despite President Bola Tinubu’s directive following the suspension of the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state.
The development left thousands of his supporters, who had gathered in anticipation of his return, disappointed.
The emergency rule, declared on March 18, 2025, was aimed at restoring peace and order in Rivers State after a prolonged constitutional crisis between the governor and the state legislature.
President Tinubu’s decision on Wednesday to lift the emergency rule had generated relief and high expectations that Governor Fubara would immediately resume duties.
In the early hours of Thursday, jubilant crowds—comprising women, youths, and loyalists—flooded major streets of Port Harcourt, chanting solidarity songs and marching in anticipation of the governor’s return.
However, by 5 p.m., the enthusiasm had waned as there were still no signs of the governor’s presence. It also remains unclear whether Governor Fubara has returned to the country since his temporary relocation overseas during the emergency rule.
In sharp contrast, the state lawmakers who were suspended alongside him resumed plenary on Thursday. During the session, they resolved to investigate the finances of the state under the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas, and further requested that the governor submit a list of commissioner nominees for screening.
As at the time of filing this report, Governor Fubara’s whereabouts and possible date of resumption remained uncertain.
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