Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured citizens of Rivers State that his administration will maintain the policies and development programmes that earned him popular support, following his reinstatement after six months of emergency rule.

Fubara returned to the state on Friday, arriving at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Ilwerre Local Government Area. He was met by a large crowd of supporters who had gathered to welcome him back. Upon arrival at Government House, Port Harcourt, the governor expressed deep appreciation to the people, saying he was humbled by the show of love, confidence, and solidarity.

In his remarks, Fubara stated: “I want to assure you that we will by the grace of God, continue to do those things that have made you people love us.” He emphasized that his government and the people share a bond and that his administration will not depart from the programmes and values that have built trust with citizens.

Governor Fubara announced he will deliver an official statewide broadcast at 6pm, during which he intends to publicly thank all stakeholders who played roles in restoring peace and normalcy in Rivers State.

Fubara had been suspended for six months under an emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, a measure that suspended the governor, deputy governor, and all members of the State House of Assembly. The state of emergency was declared due to a constitutional impasse with the legislature that had stalled the budget process and governance. The emergency was lifted earlier this week, effective September 17, 2025. Fubara’s return to Government House signified the restoration of democratic governance in the state.

The jubilant reception signals strong grassroots support for Fubara and suggests expectations among the populace that his return will lead to continuity in governance and development efforts. Citizens and political observers will likely be watching closely to see which policies are reinforced or reintroduced, and how the relationship between Fubara and other political actors develops following the crisis. The impending broadcast offers an opportunity for Fubara to lay out more detailed plans moving forward and possibly address any residual concerns from the period of emergency rule.