Thousands of jubilant supporters gathered at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday, anticipating a triumphant appearance by Governor Siminalayi Fubara following his reinstatement.
The crowd comprising residents, musicians, masquerades, and political figures assembled as early as 7:00 a.m., energized by President Bola Tinubu’s announcement ending the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State.
But by 5:10 p.m., the mood had shifted. The once-bustling venue was deserted, and Governor Fubara remained conspicuously absent. Former Chief of Staff Edison Ehie and ex-local government chairmen Chijioke Ihunwo and Ezebunwo Itche-Mati, who had arrived early with their supporters, quietly exited without comment.
Security personnel reportedly restricted access to the Brick House, intensifying speculation about the governor’s whereabouts. Despite the uncertainty, government operations resumed across all three branches. The judiciary ended its annual recess, with courts reopening on September 17.
In the House of Assembly, Speaker Martins Amaewhule led a session that praised President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance. Lawmakers passed a motion to investigate contracts and expenditures authorized by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) during his tenure as Sole Administrator. They also urged Governor Fubara to submit commissioner nominees and a supplementary budget for the remainder of 2025.
Mixed Reactions to Fubara’s Silence
Political analyst Omenazu Jackson expressed concern over the governor’s silence, calling it a critical moment for leadership. “Governor Fubara is at a crossroads. He must either bolden up and defend the sacred mandate of the Rivers people or walk away,” Jackson told The Guardian.
Conversely, APC chieftain Eze Chukwuemeka Eze defended Fubara’s absence, interpreting it as a strategic pause. “If President Tinubu fails to assure him of his full powers and protection, I will advise him to stay away until the right things are done,” Eze stated.
As of press time, Governor Fubara had yet to make a public statement, leaving supporters and residents in a state of uncertainty.
