Rivers People Take to Streets to Welcome Fubara as Sole Administrator Officially Hands Over

ByEditor

Sep 18, 2025 #Fubara Returns, #Governor Siminalayi Fubara, #Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), #Rivers Sole Administrator, #Rivers State, #Rivers State Emergency Rule, #Rivers' State of Emergency

Matilda Omonaiye/

Supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara staged a mini rally outside the Rivers State Government House today as they awaited his return to office, following his reinstatement by President Bola Tinubu.

The excitement in Port Harcourt came just as the Sole Administrator of the state, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), officially handed over to Fubara in a state-wide broadcast.

President Tinubu had suspended Fubara six months ago and declared emergency rule in Rivers State, appointing Ibas as Sole Administrator to restore order and oversee governance.

The emergency rule was lifted yesterday, paving the way for Fubara’s return.

In his farewell address, Ibas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that his assignment had been accomplished with the restoration of law and order, the conduct of local government elections, reconstitution of statutory boards and commissions, and passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.

“One of the enduring lessons of this season,” Ibas said, “is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.”

He urged Rivers people to rally behind Fubara as he resumes leadership of the state.

“Now as I hand back the reins of leadership to Sim Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect and I urge all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility,” the Sole Administrator said.

The reinstated governor is expected to resume duties immediately, with his supporters saying his return marks the end of a turbulent chapter in Rivers politics.