Political Backlash as Governor Fubara Skips Appearance with Supporters
In the heart of Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, thousands of supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara gathered at the Government House on Thursday morning. The anticipation was palpable as the crowd waited for Fubara's return, following the lifting of the six-month emergency rule by President Bola Tinubu.
The emergency rule, imposed in November 2022 due to a political standoff between Fubara and the Rivers House of Assembly, which is dominated by Wike loyalists, was a significant turning point in the state's governance. The standoff was caused by a dispute involving Wike's loyalists.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) was appointed as the Sole Administrator under the emergency rule. The lifting of the emergency rule now allows for democratic governance to resume in Rivers State.
As early as 6 a.m., supporters could be seen gathered at the entrance of the Government House. However, by early afternoon, Fubara was yet to appear, causing frustration among some of the supporters. One supporter, who later left due to hunger, stated that they might return when Fubara arrives.
Interestingly, none of the supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, were present at the Government House. On the contrary, some immediate past local government chairmen loyal to Fubara, including Chijoke Ihunwo and Ezebunwo Itche-Mati, were present. The newly elected local government chairmen allied with Wike, however, were absent.
Fubara's absence was due to security concerns and ongoing legal challenges. President Tinubu, in a formal lifting of the emergency rule on Wednesday, cleared the path for Fubara, his deputy, and the lawmakers to resume democratic governance in the oil-rich state.
As the crowd dispersed after hours of waiting without sighting Fubara, it was clear that the lifting of the emergency rule marks a significant milestone in the governance of Rivers State. The 'resumption' of democratic governance under Fubara is expected today.
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