Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara attended a church service in Port Harcourt on March 23, 2025, marking his first public appearance since his suspension. President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing political instability and pipeline vandalism, leading to Fubara's six-month suspension.
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, made his first public appearance on Sunday, March 23, 2025, by attending a church service at Salvation Ministries in GRA, Port Harcourt. He was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, marking his first sighting since his removal from office.
Fubara's suspension came after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to escalating political tensions and security concerns. The move also affected Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu and the entire state House of Assembly. In their place, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator to govern the state for six months.
The crisis in Rivers State has been fueled by internal disputes within the People’s Democratic Party, with reports of impeachment threats against Fubara. The state has also witnessed increased incidents of pipeline vandalism, including a major fire on the Trans Niger Pipeline, which has raised national concerns about oil production and security.
Legal experts, including the Nigerian Bar Association, have criticized the suspension, arguing that a state of emergency does not justify the removal of elected officials. Activists like Omoyele Sowore have also weighed in, claiming Fubara’s political struggles are linked to his previous alliances in the state.
Fubara’s public appearance at church has sparked reactions, with supporters viewing it as a sign of resilience amid uncertainty over his political future.
![[VIDEO] “I Will Sign Their Condolences,” Wike Responds to False Health Claims](/data/attachments/215/215089-cab0badb8c574c45f36b0c587e4d2784.jpg?hash=bXtJ0aIL16)
