On Tuesday night, the fate of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara remained uncertain as military trucks rolled into the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt.
The deployment came amid rising tensions following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.
Eyewitnesses reported that military vehicles were stationed both within and outside the Government House premises, signifying a strong security presence on the first night of the emergency rule. This drastic measure was prompted by escalating attacks on oil installations in the state, allegedly carried out by militant groups opposed to the impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara.
The crisis took a critical turn after members of the Rivers State House of Assembly served the governor with a notice of alleged misconduct. Shortly after, militant groups that had previously issued threats followed through by targeting key oil infrastructure. The federal government responded with swift military intervention, leading to President Tinubu’s decision to suspend both Governor Fubara and the state lawmakers for six months. In their place, an appointed administrator was assigned to oversee the state’s governance.
Heavy Military Deployment in Port Harcourt
Following the emergency declaration, at least 10 military trucks were seen patrolling roads leading to the Government House, while armored vehicles were strategically positioned at key points. Residents described the main road from UTC Junction to the Government House as eerily deserted, with many people hurrying back to their homes to avoid any potential conflict.
A local resident, who requested anonymity, confirmed the heavy military presence, stating:
“The entire stretch from Isaac Boro Park to UTC Junction is almost empty. People are rushing home because nobody wants to be caught in any crossfire.”
The sudden military deployment has fueled speculation regarding the whereabouts of Governor Fubara. By press time, there was no confirmation on whether he had vacated the Government House or remained inside under tight security.
Governor Fubara’s Last-Minute Strategy
Sources within the Government House suggested that Governor Fubara may have anticipated the emergency declaration and taken precautionary steps. Reports indicate that throughout the day, he held multiple meetings with members of his suspended state Executive Council.
A former commissioner, who spoke briefly to Daily Trust via phone, confirmed he was in a meeting with the governor but declined to provide further details. He promised to call back but had not done so as of the time of reporting.
As the situation in Rivers State remains fluid, all eyes are on how the federal government’s intervention will unfold and whether the suspended governor will challenge the decision. The growing uncertainty has left residents anxious about what comes next in this deepening political crisis.
