Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has returned to Port Harcourt after six months of political uncertainty, marking his first appearance since the lifting of emergency rule imposed by the Federal Government earlier this year.
Fubara’s flight touched down at the Port Harcourt International Airport around 11:50 a.m. on Friday, where jubilant crowds had gathered at the VIP wing to welcome him back.
Supporters sang, danced, and waved banners, signaling relief at the governor’s return after a prolonged period of uncertainty in the oil-rich state.
His reappearance comes just over 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially suspended the emergency rule that had been in effect since March.
During the period, retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as sole administrator, overseeing the affairs of Rivers State.
Ibas formally handed over power on Wednesday evening, paving the way for Fubara’s reinstatement.
The emergency rule was declared following months of political turbulence in Rivers, marked by heightened tensions between rival factions in the state assembly, street protests, and violent clashes that threatened governance and public order.
ALSO READ: Tinubu terminates emergency rule in Rivers State
The Federal Government cited the need to stabilize the state and safeguard lives and property as justification for the measure.
On Thursday, the Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened under the leadership of Speaker Martins Amaewhule, signaling a gradual return to democratic processes.
However, Fubara was noticeably absent from the Government House in Port Harcourt that day, despite the anticipation of thousands of supporters who had assembled in expectation of his return.
His arrival on Friday has now quelled some of those anxieties. The governor, alongside his deputy, Ngozi Odu is expected to immediately resume official duties, with insiders hinting at plans to convene a meeting of the State Executive Council within days.
The rivalry between factions loyal to Fubara and those aligned with other political heavyweights continues to cast a shadow over Rivers’ governance.
Supporters at the airport, however, struck an optimistic note. Many carried placards calling for peace and stability, while others praised President Tinubu for lifting the emergency rule and allowing Rivers to return to civilian leadership.
The governor’s reappearance is also expected to revive conversations about reconciliation, governance, and the restoration of confidence in Rivers’ political institutions.
As he resumes his duties, observers say all eyes will be on how Governor Fubara rebuilds trust with the legislature, the people, and his political allies, while steering the state toward stability after months of tension.
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