Hundreds of supporters of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, have once again trooped to the Government House in Port Harcourt to await his resumption of official duties.
On Friday morning, the atmosphere around the seat of power was filled with excitement as jubilant groups of men and women sang, danced, and drummed in solidarity with the governor.
The large turnout mirrored a similar gathering held on Thursday, shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the lifting of the emergency rule in the state.
Witnesses said the supporters were divided into two camps.
While some converged at the Government House, others positioned themselves at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, in anticipation of receiving the governor on his return.
Governor Fubara is expected to officially resume work after weeks of political tension and uncertainty in Rivers.
His comeback follows President Tinubu’s decision on Thursday, September 18, to lift the emergency rule imposed earlier this year, which had suspended regular state activities.
For many residents, Fubara’s return is seen as a step toward restoring stability to Rivers’ political climate.
The gatherings in Port Harcourt also highlight the loyalty of his grassroots supporters, who have stood by him during the crisis.
Political observers believe that the warm reception could signal Fubara’s growing influence and reinforce his authority in the state, despite ongoing challenges.
His resumption is also expected to set the tone for governance priorities that had been on hold during the emergency period.
As chants in praise of the governor continued at both the Government House and the airport, residents of Port Harcourt expressed hope that his return to office would translate into renewed development efforts and a stronger sense of political calm.
Governor Fubara’s first official statements and actions upon resuming duties are expected to be closely watched, both within Rivers State and across Nigeria’s wider political landscape.