The official portrait of Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, remained on display at the Government House in Port Harcourt as Admiral Ekwe Ibok Ibas (rtd) assumed office as the Sole Administrator of the state.
This comes after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing a prolonged political crisis.
President Tinubu had suspended Governor Fubara and the members of the state House of Assembly for six months, pointing to a breakdown of law and order as the reason for his decision. Following this, he appointed Ibas to oversee the affairs of the state and restore stability.
After being sworn in on Wednesday, Ibas addressed reporters at the State House, stressing the need to bring peace back to Rivers.
“We know the circumstances that led to why we are here, and Mr President made it clear in his broadcast. If the main issue is that of maintaining law and order in the state, I think for any meaningful activities to take place in Rivers State, that is the utmost task that I have. We will work together with other stakeholders to ensure that we bring peace, order, security and stability to the people and government of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.”
Sources revealed that Ibas arrived at Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, at about 11:30 a.m. before heading straight to the Government House, where he was welcomed by staff. His first official visit to the executive chamber also revealed an interesting sight—both President Tinubu’s and Governor Fubara’s portraits were still hanging on the walls.
This detail has drawn attention, as some observers expected that Fubara’s portrait might have been removed following his suspension. However, its presence suggests that official processes regarding his suspension are still unfolding.
