Thousands Left Waiting as Governor Fails to Show After Emergency Rule Ends
A CoolNews Comprehensive Investigation
Port Harcourt, September 19, 2025
In what has become another chapter in Rivers State’s ongoing political drama, thousands of supporters who gathered at Government House Port Harcourt on Thursday to welcome back Governor Siminalayi Fubara were left disappointed when he failed to appear for his scheduled resumption of duties.
The absence marks yet another twist in one of Nigeria’s most complex political crises, leaving questions about the state’s future governance and the effectiveness of federal intervention in resolving deep-seated political conflicts.
THE EMERGENCY RULE BACKGROUND
Origins of the Crisis
The Rivers State political crisis began as a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister. What started as a dispute between former political allies escalated into a full-blown constitutional crisis that threatened the stability of one of Nigeria’s most economically important states.
The conflict centered on control of state structures and resources, with both camps claiming legitimacy. The dispute split the Rivers State House of Assembly into factions, with Speaker Martin Amaewhule leading the pro-Wike faction that initiated impeachment proceedings against Fubara.
Escalation and Violence
As tensions mounted, the political crisis took violent turns. The state Assembly complex was set ablaze, marking a dangerous escalation in what had been primarily a political battle. Protests became commonplace, with rival groups clashing on the streets of Port Harcourt.
The situation became even more precarious when local communities and ex-agitators threatened to destroy oil installations if Governor Fubara was impeached. This threat to Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, concentrated heavily in Rivers State, raised the stakes considerably.
These threats materialized in explosive incidents. A day before President Tinubu imposed emergency rule, an explosion rocked a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline in the Bodo Community of Gonna Local Government Area. The following day, another explosion severed a pipeline manifold in the Omwawriwa axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.
Federal Intervention
President Bola Tinubu initially attempted to resolve the crisis through diplomatic means, orchestrating a peace deal between the warring factions. However, when this intervention failed to calm tensions and with oil infrastructure under threat, the President took the unprecedented step of declaring emergency rule on March 18, 2025.
The emergency rule effectively suspended democratic governance in Rivers State, with retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas appointed as sole administrator. This marked the first time since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 that emergency rule was imposed on a state due to political crisis rather than security challenges.
THE SIX-MONTH EMERGENCY PERIOD
Admiral Ibas’s Administration
During his tenure, Vice-Admiral Ibas worked to restore stability to Rivers State. His administration achieved several key milestones:
Local Government Elections: Conducted elections for local government positions, with newly elected chairmen taking office during the emergency period.
Institutional Reconstruction: Reconstituted statutory boards and commissions that had been paralyzed by the political crisis.
Budget Passage: Secured passage of the state budget through the National Assembly, providing a legitimate fiscal framework for governance.
Peace and Order: Maintained relative calm in a state that had been on the brink of chaos.
Lessons from Emergency Rule
In his farewell address, Admiral Ibas reflected on the lessons learned during this unprecedented period: “One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.”
He emphasized that the experience should serve as “a permanent reminder that the health of our polity depends not on who wins or loses but on how political actors manage their differences and in the strength of the institutions we preserve and the unity we nurture.”
THURSDAY’S DISAPPOINTMENT: THE FAILED RETURN
Early Morning Preparations
Thursday, September 18, 2025, was supposed to mark the return of democratic governance to Rivers State. From as early as 6am, supporters of Governor Fubara began converging on Government House along Azikiwe Street, Port Harcourt, arriving from different parts of the state.
The atmosphere was festive, with women’s groups clad in red, pink, and other colorful uniforms, many bearing portraits of the governor. Three music bands were stationed at different points, filling the air with celebratory tunes as supporters danced and sang in anticipation of Fubara’s return.
The Gathering Crowd
Among those present were several high-profile political figures from Fubara’s camp:
Former Commissioners: Evans Bipi (former Housing Commissioner), Solomon Eke (former Power Commissioner), and Chisom Gbala (former Youth Commissioner) led their supporters to the venue.
Sacked Local Government Chairmen: Chijoke Ihunwo, Ezebunwo Ichemati, Peter Amakiri, and Promise Reginald, all recently removed from office following a Supreme Court ruling that nullified their elections, were present hoping for their political rehabilitation.
Pro-Fubara Legislators: Former factional Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo and Sokari Goodboy, along with other lawmakers loyal to the governor, joined the gathering.
Community Leaders: Prince Emejuru, former Commissioner for Physical Planning, was among the notable figures leading supporters.
The Long Wait
As hours passed without any sign of the governor, the mood gradually shifted from celebration to concern. By 2pm, it became clear that Fubara was unlikely to appear, and supporters began leaving “in droves, many of them wearing long, gloomy faces.”
Political leaders loyal to Fubara were seen making frantic phone calls, trying to ascertain the governor’s whereabouts. The spontaneous nature of the gathering, which supporters had initially seen as evidence of genuine grassroots support, became a source of embarrassment.
Traffic and Security Challenges
The massive gathering caused significant disruption to Port Harcourt’s traffic flow. Vehicles were diverted from the popular UTC Junction into the Old GRA axis, forcing many commuters to trek long distances. Security operatives, mainly police officers and personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, worked tirelessly to manage the swelling crowds and maintain order.
THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES POWER STRUGGLE
Ongoing Negotiations
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that Fubara’s failure to appear was directly linked to ongoing discussions about key appointments in his administration. The talks, which extended late into Thursday night, centered on the distribution of power between the Fubara and Wike camps.
According to multiple sources, Nyesom Wike was allegedly insisting that crucial positions in Fubara’s government should be filled by his loyalists:
- Secretary to the State Government
- Chief of Staff to the Governor
- Majority of State Commissioners
These demands represent an attempt to maintain significant influence over Rivers State governance even while serving as FCT Minister, effectively creating a power-sharing arrangement that would limit Fubara’s autonomy as governor.
Wike’s Public Denial
When confronted about these allegations during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program on Thursday, Wike categorically denied any attempt to influence appointments:
“I cannot go and impose anything on the governor. Why would I impose anything on the governor? Assuming I go to the governor and say, ‘I want this,’ will the state collapse? I will not. I have no candidate, and I will not.”
When pressed about Fubara’s whereabouts, Wike deflected: “I am not his Chief Security Officer. I am not his protocol officer. You don’t know what my programmes are. You don’t know where he is. Governance does not mean one must be in the office to govern.”
The Abuja Connection
An aide to Governor Fubara, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the governor was in Abuja and would return to Port Harcourt on Friday. The aide’s reluctance to provide details suggests the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations.
The fact that crucial decisions about Rivers State governance were being made in Abuja underscores the extent to which federal intervention has complicated the state’s political dynamics.
LEGISLATIVE PRESSURE AND CONSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Assembly’s First Session
The Rivers State House of Assembly, under Speaker Martin Amaewhule, held its first plenary session in six months on Thursday at the Conference Hall of the Legislative Quarters. The session marked the formal return of legislative activities but also highlighted the challenges ahead.
Key Resolutions
The Assembly passed several resolutions that effectively put pressure on Governor Fubara:
Commissioner Nominations: Called for immediate submission of the list of commissioner-nominees for screening and confirmation, emphasizing adherence to constitutional requirements and the peace agreement terms.
Budget Submission: Demanded the presentation of the Rivers State Appropriation Bill to cover the remaining part of 2025, reflecting current realities.
Financial Review: Announced plans to review all contracts awarded and expenditures from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund during the six-month emergency period, potentially scrutinizing decisions made by Admiral Ibas’s administration.
Constitutional Implications
House Leader Major Jack, presenting the motion on behalf of eight co-sponsors, argued that these demands were necessary to “reflect current realities” and ensure constitutional governance. The Assembly’s assertiveness suggests that the power struggle between the executive and legislature that precipitated the original crisis has not been resolved.
Speaker Amaewhule commended President Tinubu for restoring democratic institutions but emphasized that the House would work within constitutional provisions and the terms of the peace agreement, effectively setting conditions for cooperation.
THE HANDOVER CEREMONY
Admiral Ibas’s Farewell
Late Wednesday night, Admiral Ibas formally handed over governance to Governor Fubara in a ceremony at Government House. His farewell address was both reflective and forward-looking, emphasizing the achievements of his administration while acknowledging ongoing challenges.
Achievements Highlighted
In his state broadcast, Admiral Ibas outlined his administration’s key accomplishments:
Order Restoration: “Law and order have been restored” through careful management of conflicting interests and maintenance of security.
Democratic Process: Successfully conducted local government elections, with elected chairmen now serving in their offices.
Institutional Reform: Reconstituted statutory boards and commissions, restoring their functionality.
Fiscal Framework: Secured passage of the state budget through the National Assembly, providing legitimate governance structure.
Warnings and Advice
Admiral Ibas used his farewell to offer important insights about governance and political behavior: “We must be mindful that statecraft is not a destination. Even the most advanced nations and countries must constantly renew themselves because governance is a living process.”
He emphasized that Rivers State would continue to require “vigilance, sacrifice and leadership anchored on one enduring truth that governments exist to protect the people and to promote their welfare and wellbeing.”
Controversial Last-Minute Appointment
However, Admiral Ibas’s tenure ended controversially when he appointed Dr. Iringe Brown as substantive Head of Service at midnight Wednesday, just before departing. This last-minute decision drew sharp criticism from rights activist Charles Jaja, who accused the outgoing administrator of creating problems for the incoming governor.
“Ibas just wants to create problems for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, if not, why would he make such an appointment at midnight of his moving out of Government House?” Jaja questioned, calling the appointment a violation of civil service rules that promoted “favouritism over merit and seniority.”
COMMUNITY REACTIONS AND SOCIAL DYNAMICS
Grassroots Support
The massive turnout of Fubara’s supporters on Thursday demonstrated the governor’s continued popularity among certain segments of Rivers society. Former Commissioner Solomon Eke noted that the “organic and unorganised celebrations” proved “the love Rivers people have for the Governor.”
An elderly female supporter captured the sentiment of many: “We are here to welcome the golden governor, the peaceful governor, the best governor in Nigeria, Siminalayi Fubara. The women of Rivers State have been praying since March 18, when this emergency rule was declared.”
Notable Absence
Significantly, no supporters of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, including newly elected local government chairmen from his camp, were visible at Government House. This absence highlights the deep divisions that continue to characterize Rivers politics.
Economic and Social Impact
The political crisis and subsequent emergency rule have had significant economic and social consequences for Rivers State. The disruption of normal governance, combined with the uncertainty surrounding oil installations, has created an atmosphere of instability that affects business confidence and investment decisions.
The diversion of traffic around Government House and the need for heavy security deployment also highlight the ongoing costs of political instability on daily life in Port Harcourt.
ELDER STATESMEN’S INTERVENTION
Call for Reconciliation
Recognizing the continued fragility of peace in Rivers State, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, led by former Governor Chief Rufus Ada-George, issued a comprehensive statement calling for genuine reconciliation.
The forum, in a statement signed by acting chairman and former Deputy Governor Dr. Gabriel Toby, emphasized the need for “reflection, forgiveness, rededication, and unity.” The statement, titled “A Call For Reflection, Forgiveness, Rededication, And Unity,” represents an attempt by respected elder statesmen to provide moral leadership during this critical period.
Key Messages
The elders’ statement addressed several crucial points:
Gratitude to Federal Government: Thanked President Tinubu for restoring full democratic governance while implicitly acknowledging that federal intervention was necessary.
Call for Mature Politics: Urged all political actors to “put aside bitterness, rebuild confidence in each other, and embrace reconciliation.”
Emphasis on Service: Stressed that the return of democratic governance “must not simply mark a political settlement but a fresh start rooted in accountability, transparency, and integrity.”
Unity Over Division: Emphasized that “Division weakens us; unity strengthens us” and called for collective action to address unemployment, insecurity, infrastructural decay, and environmental degradation.
Appeal to Citizens
The forum also addressed ordinary Rivers citizens, urging them to “remain calm, peaceful, and hopeful” while actively participating in rebuilding the state. They specifically called on citizens to “reject violence and resist those who seek to divide the state.”
ECONOMIC AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS
Oil Infrastructure Concerns
Rivers State’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy cannot be overstated. The state hosts significant oil and gas infrastructure, making political stability crucial for national economic security. The threats to oil installations that preceded the emergency rule demonstrate how local political conflicts can have national implications.
The explosions at the Trans Niger Pipeline and other facilities serve as reminders of the potential economic consequences of unresolved political disputes. Any return to such tactics would have severe implications for Nigeria’s oil production and revenue generation.
Investment Climate
The ongoing political uncertainty affects investor confidence in Rivers State. Despite its rich natural resources and strategic location, the state’s investment climate has been negatively impacted by months of political instability.
The delay in Fubara’s return and the continued negotiations over key appointments signal that political stability remains elusive, potentially deterring both domestic and international investors who require predictable governance structures.
Federal-State Relations
The emergency rule in Rivers State has set a significant precedent in Nigeria’s federal system. It demonstrates the federal government’s willingness to intervene in state affairs when political conflicts threaten national interests, particularly economic security.
This intervention raises important questions about the balance between federal authority and state autonomy in Nigeria’s constitutional system.
LEGAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL DIMENSIONS
Supreme Court Ruling Impact
The Supreme Court’s nullification of local government elections conducted under Fubara’s administration added another layer of complexity to the crisis. The ruling effectively invalidated the positions of several local government chairmen who supported Fubara, weakening his political base at the grassroots level.
The presence of these “sacked” chairmen at Thursday’s gathering reflects their hope for political rehabilitation under a returning Fubara administration, but their legal status remains uncertain.
Constitutional Questions
The Rivers crisis raises several constitutional questions about the limits of gubernatorial power, the role of state legislatures, and the circumstances under which federal intervention is justified.
The ongoing negotiations over appointments suggest that normal constitutional processes are being influenced by political deal-making, potentially setting problematic precedents for governance in other states.
MEDIA AND INFORMATION WARFARE
Competing Narratives
Throughout the crisis, both camps have engaged in extensive media campaigns to shape public perception. Fubara’s supporters have portrayed him as a victim of godfather politics, while Wike’s camp has emphasized the need for experienced leadership and political stability.
The absence of Wike supporters at Thursday’s gathering could be interpreted either as a lack of grassroots support or as a strategic decision to avoid confrontation during a sensitive period.
Social Media Impact
Social media platforms have played a significant role in amplifying the political divisions, with supporters of both camps using these platforms to mobilize support and attack opponents. This digital dimension adds complexity to traditional political organizing and conflict resolution efforts.
LOOKING FORWARD: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Immediate Challenges
Governor Fubara faces several immediate challenges upon his return:
Government Formation: Navigating the complex negotiations over key appointments while maintaining his authority as governor.
Legislative Relations: Working with a potentially hostile Assembly that has already made significant demands regarding appointments and budget approval.
Party Unity: Healing divisions within the ruling party that have been exacerbated by months of conflict.
Economic Recovery: Addressing the economic impacts of political instability and restoring investor confidence.
Opportunities for Resolution
Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for positive development:
Federal Support: President Tinubu’s intervention demonstrates federal commitment to resolving the crisis, potentially providing ongoing support for peace-building efforts.
Elder Statesmen’s Role: The involvement of respected leaders like Chief Rufus Ada-George provides moral authority that could facilitate reconciliation.
Public Desire for Peace: The clear preference of ordinary citizens for peace and development over political conflict creates pressure on leaders to find solutions.
Economic Incentives: The state’s economic potential provides strong incentives for all parties to prioritize stability and development.
BROADER IMPLICATIONS FOR NIGERIAN POLITICS
Godfather Politics
The Rivers crisis highlights the persistent challenge of godfather politics in Nigerian democracy, where former leaders attempt to maintain control over their successors. This pattern has been observed in other states and represents a significant obstacle to democratic consolidation.
Federal Intervention
The use of emergency rule in Rivers State may influence how similar conflicts are handled in other states, potentially affecting the balance of power in Nigeria’s federal system.
Democratic Institutions
The crisis has tested the strength of democratic institutions in Nigeria, revealing both their vulnerabilities and their resilience. The eventual resolution will provide important lessons for institutional development.
CONCLUSION: AN ONGOING STORY
As Rivers State enters this new phase following the end of emergency rule, Thursday’s events serve as a reminder that political reconciliation remains incomplete. Governor Fubara’s delayed return reflects the complex negotiations still underway and the fragile nature of the peace that has been achieved.
The massive turnout of supporters demonstrates the governor’s continued popularity among significant segments of the population, but the ongoing power struggles suggest that sustainable peace will require genuine compromise from all parties.
The role of federal intervention, the pressure from elder statesmen for reconciliation, and the clear desire of ordinary citizens for peace and development provide hope for a positive resolution. However, the path forward remains challenging, requiring political maturity, genuine dialogue, and a commitment to the common good over narrow partisan interests.
As Rivers State moves forward, the lessons learned from this crisis will have implications far beyond the state’s boundaries, potentially influencing how political conflicts are managed throughout Nigeria. The ultimate success or failure of efforts to achieve lasting peace in Rivers State will serve as a test case for Nigerian democracy’s ability to resolve internal conflicts through institutional means rather than violence or prolonged instability.
The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether the emergency rule intervention has created a foundation for sustainable peace or merely provided a temporary pause in an ongoing conflict. Governor Fubara’s eventual return and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape will be closely watched by Nigerians and international observers alike.
This comprehensive report will be updated as events unfold. Follow CoolNews for continued coverage of the Rivers State political situation.
About This Report: This comprehensive analysis is based on multiple sources and firsthand accounts from the Rivers State political crisis. CoolNews is committed to providing balanced, factual reporting on Nigeria’s political developments.
Contact: For more information or to contribute to our ongoing coverage, contact our political desk at coolnewsc@gmail.com
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