Siminalayi Fubara reinstatement drew thousands to Government House, but the Rivers governor’s absence left supporters disappointed amid political tension
Fubara was due to resume duties following the end of the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu on 18 March.
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On Wednesday, Tinubu formally lifted the rule, ending the tenure of retired naval chief Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Rivers’ sole administrator.
Crowds began gathering outside the Government House from 6am, many travelling from across the state.
Women’s groups, music bands and former commissioners loyal to Fubara joined the celebrations, describing him as “the golden governor” and “the true leader of Rivers people.”
But by mid-afternoon, it became clear the governor would not attend. Disappointed supporters left the venue with long faces, while allies and sacked local government chairmen were seen making frantic calls to confirm his whereabouts.
Aides later disclosed that Fubara was in Abuja and would return on Friday. Sources suggested his absence was linked to ongoing negotiations over key appointments, with reports that Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory minister and Fubara’s estranged predecessor, was pushing for influence over major cabinet positions.
Wike, however, dismissed the claims during a television appearance, insisting he would not interfere. “I am not his protocol officer.
There is no law that says he must resume today. Governance does not mean one must be in the office to govern,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State House of Assembly, meeting for the first time in six months, urged Fubara to submit commissioner-nominees and a fresh appropriation bill.
Speaker Martin Amaewhule praised Tinubu for restoring democratic institutions, but stressed that oversight of funds spent during emergency rule would begin immediately.
Outgoing administrator Ibas, in a farewell broadcast, claimed his mandate had been accomplished citing restored order, reconstituted boards, and the conduct of local government elections.
He warned, however, that rivalry without dialogue endangered democracy.
As political manoeuvring continues, Rivers elders under the leadership of former governor Rufus Ada-George called for reconciliation, forgiveness and unity.
“Division weakens us; unity strengthens us,” they declared, urging citizens to reject violence and support lawful governance.
Also read: Fubara cannot escape justice by joining APC, says Rivers chairman
For now, Rivers people await Fubara’s formal return, caught between relief at the end of emergency rule and uncertainty over the political compromises still to come.
