Rivers Governor Fubara makes first public appearance after suspension

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has made his first public appearance following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state and his suspension from office.

On Sunday, the embattled governor was spotted at the headquarters of Salvation Ministries in GRA, Port Harcourt, where he attended a worship service.

Fubara was accompanied by top politicians, major stakeholders, elders, and leaders of the state, as well as close associates. The visit was seen as a way to express gratitude to God for His love, mercy, and unwavering support amid the political crisis surrounding his administration.

Among those who accompanied the Governor are Chief of Staff, Dr Edison Ehie; former Senate President Pro-Tempore and President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbata; former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Dr Sam Sam Jaja; Chief Orits Onyiri; Chief Mike Elechi; and Chief David Briggs.

Others include Dr Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja; Amaopusenibo Fubara Hart; Chief Theodore Georgewill; Hon Kingston Sylvanus; former Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Hon Ezebunwo Ichemati; former Ikwerre Local Government Council Chairman, Hon Israel Abosi; former Emohua Local Government Council Chairman, Chief David Omereji; among others.

Fubara’s public outing comes just days after President Bola Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, citing rising political tensions and security threats.

The move led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In response, the President appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state’s governance for an initial six-month period.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions from political stakeholders, legal experts, and civil society groups. Meanwhile, the newly installed administrator has swiftly taken charge, convening security meetings with law enforcement officials, traditional leaders, and local government heads.

He also confirmed the release of previously withheld state allocations and directed the immediate processing of local government workers’ salaries.

Additionally, the Sole Administrator has inspected the ongoing reconstruction of the State House of Assembly Complex, vowing to expedite its completion to restore governmental stability.