September 19, (THEWILL) — Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday returned to Port Harcourt, the state capital, after six months of suspension from office under the State of Emergency.
President Bola Tinubu had, on March 18, suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly following the declaration of Emergency Rule in the state.
The President on Wednesday lifted the measure and directed them to resume duties effective Thursday, September 18, 2025.
While the House of Assembly reconvened on Thursday, the governor did not show up at the Government House, despite hundreds of supporters awaiting him.
Fubara eventually arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, around 11:40 a.m. on Friday to a rousing welcome.
He was accompanied by his wife, the Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie and others.
Thousands of jubilant supporters thronged the airport, chanting solidarity slogans.
“Our governor is here, the Don is back!” the crowd cheered as political allies and dignitaries joined the welcome party.
Among them were former Commissioner for Information and Communications, Barr. Emma Okah; former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh; former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Oji Ngofa; former Commissioner for Environment, Sydney Gbara; former factional Speaker of the House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo; and several former commissioners, union leaders, and council chairmen.
On arrival at the Government House, Port Harcourt, the Governor thanked the people of the state for their support.
The governor, who stated that he was aware of the receipt on Thursday, promised that his administration would continue to meet the needs of the state. He promised to address the state 6 pm on Friday.
“I know everybody wants to hear something from me. In fact, I expected it when I landed. Let me first of all appreciate the wonderful people of Rivers State. I am really humbled by what I saw at the Airport.
“I was thrilled by the photographs of what happened here yesterday. That reception really humbled me. It shows love, confidence and solidarity. I want to say that it is not just a celebration. It is a show of the reactivation of the bond between this government and the people of Rivers State.
“I want to want to assure you that we will, by the grace of God, continue to give those things that made you people love us. I want to thank everybody and to say that we love you, but God loves you more,” he said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
