Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara will address residents in a statewide broadcast on Friday at 6 p.m., he announced to journalists at Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital. He thanked the people and supporters for the warm reception he received at the airport, describing it as a humbling experience that highlighted the bond between the populace and the state government. Accompanying him to Government House were his wife, key stakeholders, security heads and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie. After arriving, Fubara inspected his official residence before proceeding to his office.
The broadcast follows President Bola Tinubu’s lifting of the six‑month emergency rule that had been imposed on March 18 due to a political crisis. The emergency administration, led by retired Admiral Ibok‑Ete Ibas, handed power back on Wednesday night. Fubara’s return marks the end of a six‑month period during which he and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, were absent from governance.
Fubara’s predecessor, Nyesom Wike—now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory—had previously noted that the governor was not legally required to resume office immediately after the emergency rule was lifted. Relations between Fubara and Wike have been strained since Fubara’s inauguration in May 2023, evolving into a political power struggle. The House of Assembly, which reconvened on Thursday, was divided: some lawmakers backed Fubara, while others aligned with Wike. In June, President Tinubu met with the key actors, including Fubara, Wike and assembly members, to seek reconciliation.
With Fubara back in office, attention now turns to how he will tackle the state’s challenges and rebuild relationships with various stakeholders. His Friday broadcast is expected to outline his plans and vision for Rivers State.
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