After six months under emergency rule Siminalayi Fubara returns to Rivers Government House pledges inclusive governance addresses residents and resumes official duties in Port Harcourt .
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially returned to his office at the Government House in Port Harcourt resuming his duties after a six month suspension His return signals the end of a state of emergency that was declared earlier in 2025 .
Background The Emergency Rule and Suspension
On 18 March 2025 President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State citing political crisis and instability that had disrupted governance As part of the decision Governor Fubara his deputy Ngozi Odu and the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended The federal government appointed retired Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas as sole administrator to manage the affairs of the state The emergency rule lasted for six months and on 18 September 2025 the suspension was lifted allowing Fubara to return to his elected position .
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Arrival and Reception
Governor Fubara arrived at Port Harcourt International Airport at about 12 19 pm on a Friday He was welcomed by a massive crowd of supporters and well wishers waiting eagerly to see him Among those present were his wife top stakeholders from Rivers State security chiefs and his Chief of Staff Edison Ehie The atmosphere at the airport was electric as many residents had gathered long before his arrival to demonstrate solidarity and loyalty .
Resumption of Duties at Government House
After leaving the airport the governor proceeded to the Government House in Port Harcourt where he inspected his official residence before moving into his office to resume work He expressed deep gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their overwhelming support He described the turnout at the airport as humbling and a clear demonstration of the love unity and confidence that residents still have in his leadership .
Address to the People Statewide Broadcast
Later in the day Governor Fubara announced that he would address the people of Rivers State in a statewide broadcast scheduled for 6 pm He explained that the broadcast would be used to appreciate citizens for standing by him throughout the difficult period and for supporting the return of normalcy in the state He also assured the public that his administration would remain committed to inclusive governance and a renewed bond with the people .
Political Context Wike Fubara Rift and Reconciliation
The political tension between Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike has been one of the central issues shaping Rivers politics The rift between the former allies spilled over into the House of Assembly and state institutions deepening instability Earlier in June reconciliation efforts had been initiated with the involvement of President Tinubu Governor Fubara Wike and other stakeholders including members of the state assembly The reconciliation talks were seen as a crucial step toward restoring peace and balance in Rivers politics .
Significance and Expectations
The lifting of the emergency rule restores the democratic mandate of Governor Fubara and marks the return of normal governance in Rivers State For residents this moment represents hope for renewed development progress and stability Expectations are high for the governor to refocus on his campaign promises rebuild confidence in state institutions and provide leadership that ensures stability after months of uncertainty His message of gratitude and inclusion suggests he is aware of the weight of these expectations and is prepared to carry them forward .
Looking Forward
The statewide broadcast is expected to outline the governor’s vision and policy direction for the months ahead It will likely set the tone for reconciliation development and governance priorities as he reestablishes control over the affairs of Rivers State Going forward his administration will be closely watched by both political observers and the public The ability to deliver inclusive governance rebuild fractured political relationships and avoid further crisis will determine the legacy of his leadership .