Tension is high in Rivers State after six months of emergency rule ended with Governor Siminalayi Fubara not returning to office. Supporters of the governor invited to Government House in Port Harcourt, left disappointed after an entire day waiting to see their governor.
The governor’s delay in returning to office is said to be as a result of consultations over recent appointments. The state House of Assembly is currently sitting, despite the absence of the governor, leaving residents with speculation and unease due to the governor’s absence.
Earlier this week, President Bola Tinubu lifted the emergency rule, restoring power to the governor, deputy governor, and legislature in the state. The emergency rule, though, well-received across Rivers State as a sign of stability after months of political turmoil, was vehemently criticised in some quavers.
Although no laws compel the governor to appear in office at a stipulated time, however, his silence and failure to appear publicly, is raising mat questions.
Elders and community leaders have urged Rivers residents to remain calm, while also urging the governor and Assembly to put aside their differences and collaborate. They emphasized that in order for the state to move forward, inflammatory rhetoric and actions must give way to cooperation.
Despite the uncertainty, many citizens remain optimistic, believing that the situation will be resolved, and full normalcy will be restored in a matter of days. They have a simple demands: visible leadership by Fubara, restoration of services, and real trust between government and the people.
As Rivers State navigates this precarious situation, the coming days will reveal whether Governor Fubara’s return can provide the stability and direction that citizens have been expecting.
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