(DDM) – Rivers politics entered another day of uncertainty on Thursday after reinstated Governor Siminalayi Fubara failed to return to the Government House, despite thousands of supporters who gathered in anticipation.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that as early as 6 a.m., residents trooped to the gates of Government House in Port Harcourt, carrying banners, drums, and placards to welcome their governor back after six months of suspension under emergency rule.
By midday, the crowd, which included youth groups, women associations, and loyal political appointees, dispersed in frustration as Fubara’s whereabouts remained unclear.
Among those sighted were sacked local government chairmen loyal to the governor, including Chijoke Ihunwo and Ezebunwo Iche-Mati, who mingled with the crowd in a show of solidarity.
However, allies of Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, alongside newly installed council bosses, were conspicuously absent, signaling that the political divisions in the state remain unresolved.
Fubara’s absence came a day after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lifted the emergency rule that had suspended the governor, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.
During the six-month period, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) acted as sole administrator, overseeing state governance and finances.
The House of Assembly, resuming plenary on Thursday, wasted no time in announcing plans to probe Ibas’s financial activities during his interim administration.
Lawmakers also urged Fubara to quickly forward the list of commissioner-nominees for screening and confirmation, stressing that Rivers State cannot afford further governance paralysis.
Speaker Martin Amaewhule noted that the Assembly was committed to upholding peace and restoring democratic order, but warned that both arms of government must demonstrate cooperation.
Analysts say Fubara’s continued absence from Government House could fuel speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations and fears of renewed political instability.
Observers note that Fubara’s conflict with Wike—his predecessor and estranged political godfather—triggered the crisis that culminated in Tinubu declaring emergency rule in March.
The governor’s silence on his next steps has left both his supporters and opponents on edge, with uncertainty over whether he will attempt to consolidate power or seek reconciliation with rival factions.
Residents who waited at the Government House told DDM that their disappointment was tempered by hope that the governor would eventually resume duties and stabilize governance.
Civil society groups have also urged caution, warning that Rivers State, Nigeria’s oil and gas hub, cannot afford another prolonged political showdown that disrupts development and investor confidence.
As the Assembly moves ahead with investigations and demands, pressure is mounting on Fubara to break his silence, return to office, and demonstrate leadership in a state still recovering from months of political turbulence.
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