Port Harcourt, Rivers State — Supporters of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who gathered at the Government House in anticipation of his arrival, expressed disappointment on Thursday after the Governor did not show up.
Thousands had gathered as early as 6:00 am, including former chairmen of local councils in the state as well as associates of the governor. The supporters gathered to receive the governor, following the decision of President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday to lift the six-month emergency rule declared in the state.
The emergency rule had been declared in March had suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the state House of Assembly, while Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas was appointed as sole administrator.
Hope of a symbolic return was high. Supporters brought drummers and banners, surrounded by crowds waiting for a signal from the governor’s office. After many hours had passed and there was still no official word from the government, supporters drifted home due to exhaustion and disappointment.
In another news, amid curious speculation about whether the governor was still consulting major stakeholders about the eventual return to office, the Rivers State House of Assembly has resumed plenary on Thursday. In a spirited debate, Assembly members called on the Governor to submit a list of commissioner nominees and a new appropriation bill to the house.