By Joke Kujenya
RIVERS STATE Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reportedly vacated the Government House in Port Harcourt alongside his family and security details, following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich state.
A close source, who requested anonymity due to lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, confirmed that Fubara left the seat of power on Wednesday morning.
This development follows the growing political crisis in the state, which escalated with the vandalisation of oil pipelines and threats from militant groups.
Security presence at the Government House remains minimal, with two Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) still stationed outside the premises since Tuesday night.
Reports indicate that some security details have been reshuffled, though the general atmosphere remains calm.
Meanwhile, the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), was yet to assume office as of 12:50pm on Wednesday.
Close-by observers at the Government House reported that preparations were underway for his arrival, with approximately 15 soldiers seen inside the premises.
Despite the political tension, normal activities continued in Port Harcourt and surrounding areas, with no immediate signs of unrest.
Residents, however, expressed concerns over the military presence, particularly after military trucks were stationed at key locations near the Government House and other strategic points.
President Tinubu imposed the emergency rule on Tuesday, citing the inability of stakeholders to resolve the state’s political crisis and the increasing threats to oil installations.
The move came after militant groups warned of dire consequences if the Rivers State House of Assembly proceeded with Fubara’s impeachment.
Within hours of an impeachment notice being served, militants reportedly attacked pipelines in the region, escalating tensions further.
In response to the unrest, Tinubu announced the suspension of both Governor Fubara and the state lawmakers for six months, replacing them with a federally appointed administrator.
Military reinforcements quickly followed, with about 10 military trucks patrolling roads leading to the Government House.
Eyewitnesses described a tense atmosphere late Tuesday night, as military vehicles moved into the Government House area.
“The road leading to Government House from Isaac Boro Park to the popular UTC Junction was deserted.
Residents hurried to their homes to avoid any potential violence,” a Port Harcourt resident told JKNewsMedia.com.
As of press time, it remained unclear where Governor Fubara had relocated to.
However, sources from the Government House suggested he had anticipated the state of emergency and held multiple meetings with members of the suspended state executive council throughout Tuesday.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail the federal government’s decision.
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, condemned the move, calling it unconstitutional and reckless.
Other political stakeholders have also voiced concerns over the legality and implications of the state of emergency, warning of potential unrest if tensions are not carefully managed.
With Vice Admiral Ibas expected to take over soon, the state remains on high alert as residents and political observers watch for further developments.
