Governor Fubara And Family Leave Rivers Government House Amid Emergency Rule

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has vacated the Government House in Port Harcourt along with his family.

Sources confirmed that Fubara departed the premises on Wednesday morning after spending the night there following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule.

The move, according to the presidency, aims to restore order and prevent a governance crisis.

Security at the premises remains minimal, though the two Armoured Personnel Carriers stationed outside on Tuesday night are still present, accompanied by a small number of security operatives.

Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), appointed by President Tinubu to oversee the state for the next six months, had yet to assume office as of 12:50 p.m. on Wednesday.

At the Government House, preparations appeared to be in progress for his arrival, with about 15 soldiers spotted inside the premises, indicating an expected official handover.

Despite the political uncertainty, Port Harcourt remains calm, with residents going about their daily routines.

Many were seen discussing the emergency rule, with opinions divided—some believe Tinubu’s decision is necessary for stability, while others argue that removing an elected governor is unconstitutional.

Markets and businesses continue to operate as usual, showing no immediate disruption from the political developments.

A local resident, identified as Christ, expressed hope that the appointment of a sole administrator could lead to the release of state funds, ensuring that civil servants and local government workers get paid.

He said: “if the appointment of a sole Administrator will lead to the release of Rivers allocations so that salaries of civil servants and local government workers will be paid, then it is a step in the right direction. 

“If it will also stop the ongoing impeachment of the governor, I don’t have a problem with that. I was imagining what will happen if at the end of March civil servants salaries are not paid. The real problem will then start in Rivers.”

KanyiDaily recalls that Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and all state assembly members.