Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has left the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Reports said that he moved out on Wednesday morning, making way for retired Admiral Ibokette Ibas, who has been appointed as the state’s Sole Administrator following the declaration of a state of emergency.
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly for six months.
This decision was announced in a nationwide broadcast monitored by News About Nigeria, citing the need to restore order.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has been appointed as the state administrator to take charge of governance during this period.
Shortly after the announcement, soldiers moved into the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt.
Security operatives were seen taking positions around the premises, with an Armoured Personnel Carrier stationed at the entrance.
The presence of military personnel created tension in the state capital, as many residents hurried home, discussing the development in hushed tones.
In his address, Tinubu explained that the crisis in Rivers had worsened despite attempts at a political resolution.
He stated that governance had been affected, depriving the people of stability and development.
He added that the declaration had been officially documented and forwarded to the National Assembly.
While the administrator would manage the state’s affairs, the judiciary would continue to function normally.
Reacting, Fubara in a statement he personally signed, he expressed disappointment over the situation, describing it as an unfortunate moment in the state’s political history.
He insisted that his actions as governor had always been guided by the constitution and the best interests of the people.
Fubara blamed political opponents, particularly lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, for obstructing governance and making peace difficult.
He stated that despite the political crisis, his administration had ensured security, paid salaries, and continued developmental projects.
He also mentioned that he had complied with a Supreme Court ruling aimed at resolving the dispute but faced continued resistance from the House of Assembly.
He reassured the people that he would engage with relevant institutions to protect democracy and ensure the progress of Rivers State.
Calling for patience, he urged citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding while the situation unfolds.
