Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is set to address the state’s residents in a statewide broadcast on Friday at 6 p.m. The governor made this announcement while speaking to journalists at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital. Fubara expressed his gratitude to the residents and supporters for the warm reception he received upon his arrival at the airport, describing it as a humbling experience that showcased the bond between the people and the state government.
The governor’s arrival at the Government House was accompanied by his wife, key stakeholders, and security heads, including his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie. Upon arrival, Fubara inspected his official residence and later proceeded to his office. This comes after President Bola Tinubu lifted the six-month emergency rule in the state, which was declared on March 18 due to a political crisis. The emergency rule was administered by retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who handed over power on Wednesday night.
Fubara’s return to the state marks the end of a six-month period during which he and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, were absent from governance. The governor’s predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, had stated that Fubara was not compelled by law to resume office immediately after the emergency rule was lifted. The relationship between Fubara and Wike has been strained since Fubara’s inauguration as governor in May 2023, with the two engaging in a political power struggle.
The House of Assembly, which resumed sitting on Thursday, was divided over the political control of the state, with some lawmakers supporting Fubara and others backing Wike. However, in June, President Tinubu met with the key actors, including Fubara, Wike, and members of the assembly, in an effort to reconcile their differences. With Fubara’s return to office, attention is now focused on how he will address the state’s challenges and rebuild relationships with various stakeholders. The governor’s statewide broadcast on Friday is expected to provide insight into his plans and vision for the state.
