The whereabouts of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, remain unknown following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
In a nationwide broadcast, President Tinubu suspended the state’s executive and legislative arms for six months, appointing retired Admiral Ibak Ete-Ibas as the sole administrator. The announcement has since triggered heightened political tension in the state.
According to sources, Governor Fubara was in his official residence at the Government House in Port Harcourt when the President made the announcement.
He was reportedly attending to visitors while watching the live broadcast. However, shortly after the declaration, he abruptly ended his meeting and left the Government House with some of his aides to an undisclosed location.
A source within the Government House revealed that immediately after the President’s speech, security personnel in certain sections of the premises were replaced by new operatives, signaling a swift enforcement of the emergency rule.
There are also unconfirmed reports that officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have begun pursuing some state officials, further escalating the uncertainty surrounding the government’s transition under the emergency directive.
In the wake of the crisis, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged the people of Rivers State to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
Addressing the state on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, Fubara reassured citizens that his administration had remained committed to upholding constitutional order and the rule of law since assuming office.
“Even in the face of political impasse, we have prioritized the protection of lives and property while ensuring the continuous progress of our state,” Fubara stated.
The governor also referenced his efforts to implement the peace terms brokered by President Tinubu, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned. He noted that his administration swiftly complied with the Supreme Court’s judgment to stabilize the state.
“These steps were not for personal gain but to foster peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State. Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, making genuine peace and progress difficult,” he said.
Despite the political crisis, Fubara insisted that governance in the state had continued effectively, with salaries being paid and significant developmental projects underway.
“Our state remains safe, secure, and peaceful under my watch,” he asserted, emphasizing that Rivers people must face the situation with patience, wisdom, and faith in democracy.
He assured citizens that his administration would engage relevant institutions to uphold democratic principles and ensure the continued progress of Rivers State.
