Thousands of supporters gathered in front of the Government House in Port Harcourt to welcome back Governor Siminalayi Fubara as he resumed office on Thursday, September 18, 2025. This comes after President Bola Tinubu lifted the six-month state of emergency imposed on Rivers State on Wednesday, September 17.

Background to the Emergency Rule

The state of emergency was declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, due to a prolonged political crisis between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The declaration led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, and the elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.¹

Fubara’s Return to Office

Governor Fubara’s return to office was met with jubilation from his supporters, who celebrated with drums and dancing while awaiting his arrival. The Rivers State House of Assembly has also resumed plenary after the six-month suspension. In a statement, President Tinubu urged all stakeholders to prioritize peace, order, and good governance to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.² ³

Handover and New Beginnings

The Sole Administrator, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, officially handed over power to Governor Fubara, marking the end of the emergency rule. Ibas had successfully conducted local government elections and handed over to elected officials, claiming that the emergency mandate given by President Tinubu had been “sufficiently achieved”.