In a highly anticipated ceremony marking the end of emergency rule in Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.) officially handed over the reins of power to Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Thursday, September 18, 2025. The handover signifies a return to democratic governance after six months under the sole administration of Vice Admiral Ibas, who had been overseeing the state since emergency rule was declared in March 2025.
The transition process began with a thanksgiving service at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where Ibas reflected on the challenges faced and the progress made during his administration. In a final broadcast to the people of Rivers State, Ibas expressed gratitude for the cooperation he received and urged all stakeholders to embrace peace and unity as the state resumes normal governance.
Governor Fubara, who returned from London ahead of the event, was warmly welcomed by government officials, traditional rulers, and civil society leaders. His reinstatement marks the end of a turbulent period characterized by political instability between factions loyal to the former administration and those supporting Fubara.
The period of emergency rule was imposed by President Bola Tinubu in response to escalating political crisis, security concerns, and constitutional breaches in the state. During Ibas’s administration, efforts were made to stabilize governance, maintain peace, and prepare for a smooth transition back to civilian rule.
As the state returns to democratic normalcy, stakeholders have called for collaboration across political divides to ensure lasting peace and development. The handover ceremony was accompanied by a public lecture themed “Democracy and Good Governance,” underscoring the importance of responsible leadership moving forward.
With the restoration of Governor Fubara, Rivers State looks forward to renewed stability and progress, hopeful that lessons from the emergency period will guide future governance for the benefit of all citizens.
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