The restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State after six months of emergency rule got off to a shaky start yesterday, as the State House of Assembly resumed sitting, but Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, were absent.

Their no-show left thousands of supporters, who had thronged the Government House in Port Harcourt from across the 23 LGAs as early as 7 a.m., disappointed. By 7 p.m., after waiting nearly 12 hours, the crowd dispersed in frustration.

Speculation swirled over the governor’s whereabouts. While some claimed he had been stripped of real power and might not return, sources revealed that Fubara was in Abuja meeting key stakeholders before resuming. His predecessor and Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, confirmed on Channels Television that he had spoken with the governor, who assured him of his readiness to return.

Meanwhile, former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), formally handed over to the elected leadership, saying Tinubu’s mandate to restore order had been accomplished. He urged stakeholders to avoid a relapse into crisis but remained silent on how state funds were spent under his watch.

Assembly Sets Agenda

At its first sitting since March, the Rivers Assembly urged Governor Fubara to immediately submit a list of commissioner-nominees for screening and a fresh appropriation bill to address “current realities.”

Speaker Martins Amaewhule praised Tinubu for restoring democracy and said the House would work with the governor “within the peace accord and the Constitution.”

Supporters Wait in Vain

Groups under the Simplified Movement (Fubara’s political structure) had mobilized in colorful attire, singing and dancing outside Government House to welcome the governor. But by evening, frustration set in.

“We are going because we are hungry. Maybe when the governor comes we will return,” one supporter said.

Ibas Bows Out, Wike Extends Olive Branch

In his farewell remarks, Ibas said the emergency period restored law and order, conducted local government elections, and reconstituted statutory boards. He called for “constant vigilance” and urged Rivers people to back Fubara.

Wike, on his part, declared he had forgiven Fubara and moved on:

“I will not engage with a man I have not forgiven. Everything is over. We must move forward.”

Mixed Political Reactions

  • Atiku Abubakar described the suspension and reinstatement of Fubara as unconstitutional and a sign of dictatorship.

  • Peter Obi called the episode “a misstep that should never have happened,” urging all actors to learn lessons.

  • ADC condemned Tinubu’s handling, accusing him of playing god and undermining federalism.

For now, the Government House remains empty, and Rivers people wait for their governor’s return — hoping stability will not slip through their fingers again.