Tension In Rivers: What To Expect As Fubara Moves To Fully Take Charge Tomorrow

As the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State winds down, all eyes are now on Thursday, September 18, 2025, when Governor Siminalayi Fubara is expected to return to office and formally take over from Vice Admiral (retd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, who has served as sole administrator since March.

This expectation has been reinforced by comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during the state’s local government elections. On August 30, Wike stated: “By 18th of September, the state of emergency will expire, and the governor alongside the state House of Assembly will return to their duties.”

According to Wike, the conduct of the local government polls under emergency rule was critical to ensuring governance continuity at the grassroots once democratic leadership is restored.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu’s recent actions appear to align with this anticipated transition. Cutting short his vacation, Tinubu returned to Abuja on Tuesday, September 16, to “resume official duties,” fueling expectations that preparations are underway for Fubara’s reinstatement.

In line with this timeline, the Rivers State Government had earlier, on Saturday, September 13, announced its transition from emergency rule to democratic governance. The announcement, signed by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, revealed that an interdenominational thanksgiving service would be held on Sunday to mark the transition, with key stakeholders invited.

It will be recalled that President Tinubu declared the emergency rule on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state House of Assembly. The decision, backed by the National Assembly, was taken in response to worsening insecurity, pipeline vandalism, and political unrest, with Ibas appointed sole administrator to stabilize the state.

During his tenure, Ibas conducted local government elections across all 23 LGAs, initiated a verification exercise for civil servants and pensioners, rehabilitated infrastructure, and implemented other stabilization measures.

What to Expect Tomorrow in Rivers State:

• The official expiration of the six-month emergency rule.

• Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state House of Assembly resuming constitutional duties.

• Possible announcements from the Presidency or federal government confirming the handover.

• A formal transition, likely including a handover ceremony or public statement from Ibas.