Tinubu lifted Rivers’ emergency rule, but Governor Fubara’s absence fueled uncertainty despite supporters’ mass rally.
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday lifted the State of Emergency imposed on Rivers at the height of the crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his estranged political godfather, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Tinubu had earlier suspended Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State Assembly for six months, appointing former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Ibot Ekwe Ibas, as Sole Administrator, a decision widely criticized.
Announcing the end of the emergency rule, Tinubu said it would “elapse at midnight” as reports showed no need for its continuation. While lawmakers resumed plenary, Fubara and his deputy were not seen in public. Supporters under the Simplified Movement thronged Government House, Port Harcourt, from dawn with flutes, drums, and dance troupes, but dispersed by mid-day when the governor failed to appear.
Fubara reportedly met Wike and lawmakers during the emergency, with sources claiming he was pressured to forgo a second term and allow Wike control over local government chairmanships.