Gov Fubara Makes First Public Appearance After Suspension

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, made his first public appearance on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the headquarters of Salvation Ministries in GRA, Port Harcourt. This marks his first outing since his suspension following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.

Fubara’s appearance comes just days after President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office and appointed Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. The move was part of emergency measures taken on Tuesday to address what the presidency described as escalating political tensions and worsening security conditions in the state.

Alongside Governor Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were also suspended. In their place, Ibas was tasked with overseeing the state’s affairs for an initial period of six months.

The president’s decision has generated a flurry of reactions across political and legal circles. Despite the controversy, Ibas has already taken charge, convening emergency security meetings with law enforcement officials, traditional rulers, and local government heads. He confirmed the release of previously withheld state allocations and directed the immediate processing of payments for local government workers.

Ibas has also begun inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction of the State House of Assembly Complex, pledging to ensure its completion as part of broader efforts to restore governance stability.