Rivers: Fubara ‘Fails’ To Resume After Suspension Lifted

Thousands of Governor Siminalayi Fubara‘s supporters gathered at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Thursday to celebrate his reinstatement. However, they were ultimately disappointed when the governor did not appear.

Residents, musicians, masquerades, and political leaders had converged from as early as 7:00 a.m., expecting Fubara’s triumphant return following President Bola Tinubu’s announcement lifting the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State.

However, by 5:10 p.m., the Government House and adjoining roads had been deserted, with only skeletal activity observed.

Former Chief of Staff Edison Ehie, ex-local government chairmen Chijioke Ihunwo and Ezebunwo Itche-Mati, among others, who arrived early with their supporters, quietly departed.

Security operatives reportedly barred staff from accessing the Brick House, fueling uncertainty over the governor’s whereabouts.

Despite Fubara’s absence, government activities across the three arms of government resumed. 

The judiciary announced the end of its annual vacation, with courts reopening on September 17.

At the House of Assembly, Speaker Martins Amaewhule presided over a session that commended Tinubu for restoring democratic governance.

The lawmakers passed a motion mandating a probe into contracts and expenditures executed under the former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), during emergency rule.

The Assembly also requested Fubara to forward commissioner nominees to constitute a new Executive Council and submit a supplementary appropriation bill for the remainder of 2025.