Governor Fubara missing from public view as Rivers emergency rule ends

Nearly 24 hours after the lifting of the State of Emergency in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has yet to make a public appearance, raising questions about his status and political future.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had declared the emergency rule at the height of a bitter power struggle between Governor Fubara and his former political mentor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The clash had paralyzed governance in the state and led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly for six months.

President Tinubu then appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Ibot Ekwe Ibas (rtd), as Sole Administrator of the state—a decision that drew widespread criticism across the country.

However, on Wednesday night, the presidency announced that the emergency rule would expire at midnight, citing signs of restored calm in the state. Tinubu directed Governor Fubara, his deputy, and lawmakers to immediately resume their duties.

While the Rivers State House of Assembly held a plenary session on Thursday, Governor Fubara and his deputy remained conspicuously absent. Their failure to appear has fueled speculation, especially as no official communication has been issued regarding their whereabouts.

Earlier in the day, supporters of the governor under the banner of the “Simplified Movement” gathered at the Government House in Port Harcourt to welcome him back. The crowd, reportedly mobilized from all 23 local government areas of the state, included recently sacked local government chairmen and former factional House Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo.

Arriving as early as 6 a.m. with traditional drummers, dancers, and musicians, the supporters took over Nnamdi Azikiwe Road, causing significant traffic disruption. However, by mid-day, the crowd dispersed when it became clear the governor would not be addressing them.

Governor Fubara’s silence and absence come amid unconfirmed reports of a behind-the-scenes agreement brokered by President Tinubu. According to reports, the governor may have agreed to forgo his re-election bid in 2027 and allow Wike to nominate all local government chairpersons across the state as part of a broader peace deal.

The local government elections were held last month without Fubara’s public involvement or endorsement, further deepening the mystery surrounding his current political standing.