Category: Politics

  • 2027: Atiku dismisses reports he plans to step down

    2027: Atiku dismisses reports he plans to step down

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denied reports that he plans to step aside for another presidential aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a statement on Thursday, his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, described the claims as a misrepresentation of Atiku’s recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

    “After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts of the interview – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or even imply that he intends to step down for anyone,” the statement said.

    Ibe clarified that Atiku only emphasised that young people and other aspirants were free to contest. He added that Atiku said if a young candidate emerged through a competitive primary, he would fully support that candidate.

    “What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest. He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without any hesitation,” Ibe stated.

    He criticised what he called “mischievous” reporting: “While interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged.”

    Some media outlets (not PACESETTER) had earlier reported that Atiku told BBC Hausa he would withdraw from the 2027 race if a younger aspirant defeated him to clinch the African Democratic Congress ticket.

    Atiku did say he would accept defeat if a younger candidate emerged and that he would support and mentor such a candidate. “If I run for office, and a young man defeats me, I will accept that. The party we have joined now prioritises youth and women,” he said.

  • Moghalu Campaign Train Storms Ogbaru

    …As Hon. Afam Ogene leads the campaign train, charges constituents to stand firm with Labour Party

    The Labour Party Governorship Campaign Team, led by its flagbearer, Dr. George Moghalu, at the weekend took its community-to-community tour to Ogbaru Local Government Area, where enthusiastic supporters trooped out in large numbers to welcome the campaign train. The campaign covered six major communities—Akili-Ozizor, Atani, Ohita, Odekpe, Iyiowa, and Okpoko—with Moghalu promising that Ogbaru would never again be relegated in Anambra politics.

    Addressing supporters, Moghalu lamented what he described as “a grave injustice” to Ogbaru, stressing that the absence of a commissioner from the LGA in the present government was unacceptable. He pledged to correct the anomaly if elected, reconstruct the Onitsha–Ogbaru–Rivers State boundary road, and address insecurity in affected communities. “Ogbaru is a major oil-producing and agricultural hub, yet it has suffered neglect. Under my watch, every community will have a sense of belonging. I am known for my integrity, and I give you my word: I will not fail you,” Moghalu assured. The candidate also criticized the present administration for failing to deliver visible projects despite receiving more than ₦16 billion in federal allocations since March 2022.

    In a special interaction with pensioners, Moghalu emphasized dignity and care for senior citizens. He pledged free healthcare for citizens aged 65 and above, prompt and regular pension payments, monthly stipends for those above 70, and free and compulsory education up to secondary school across the state. “When former Governor Peter Obi was in power, stipends were paid to the elderly. I will resume this initiative from my first month in office,” he declared.

    Welcoming Moghalu to his constituency, Hon. Afam Ogene, Member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, thanked constituents for their unwavering support during the 2023 elections. He urged them to replicate the same commitment in the governorship election, stressing that Ogbaru stands to benefit more under a Labour Party government. “We cannot do it alone. We need a Labour Party governor in Anambra State to consolidate the gains already achieved. Ogbaru is Labour Party,” Ogene affirmed.

    The campaign visit climaxed with courtesy calls to stakeholders and traditional rulers, including HRH Igwe Augustine Azuka Ngoddy of Atani Kingdom and HRH Eze Emma Chuma Onyia, Akakwu of Odekpe Kingdom, where Moghalu and his team received royal blessings for the journey ahead.

  • Anambra Guber: Anambra Past Women PGs Declare Support For LP Candidate

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Chief Dr. George Moghalu, has secured a major endorsement from past Women Presidents General (PGs) across Anambra State, who declared their total support for his governorship bid ahead of the November 8th election.

    Speaking to the women, Dr. Moghalu explained that his decision to run for governor is anchored on his desire to change the narrative of leadership in the state.

    He decried the collapse of education, health, and security, pointing out that no society can thrive under fear and instability. He assured that his administration would restore dignity to governance by investing in people-centered policies that directly touch lives and rebuild confidence in the system.

    Recalling the era of good governance under former Governor Peter Obi, Dr. Moghalu stressed that the return of free education for children and free healthcare for the elderly will be a top priority under his watch.

    He described such policies as a moral duty of government and a way of securing the future, lamenting that today, instead of social welfare, ordinary citizens are being harassed through crude taxation methods like “Aka Odo.” He condemned such practices as shameful and insensitive, insisting that leadership must show compassion and empathy.

    He commended the coordinators of the forum, Barrister Oge Ekwezor and Madam Favour Nwaorah, for their commitment and resilience in mobilizing women leaders, describing them as partners in the mission to deliver Anambra to Labour Party.

    The group pledged to take Moghalu’s message back to their various communities and mobilize massive grassroots support for Labour Party. They vowed to resist any attempt by desperate politicians to buy their conscience, promising to stand firm for a better Anambra.

    “We are ready to deliver our communities for Labour Party, because we believe in Dr. George Moghalu and the future he represents. Together, we will give our leader, His Excellency Peter Obi, his state as a strong base to actualize the Igbo presidency,” they declared.

  • Women Drum Support for Mbah as Enugu First Lady Distributes Palliatives

    Women Drum Support for Mbah as Enugu First Lady Distributes Palliatives

    …Reassures on Women Empowerment 

    Women of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, LGA, Enugu State, have thrown their weights behind the reelection of the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, saying the women of the area have never had it so good.

    The women pledged their support on Wednesday during the 2025 edition of Isi-Uzo Women Convention themed “Beyond Protest and Role of Women in Community Development.

    Speaking at the event, which drew a mammoth crowd of women, traditional rulers, political leaders and stakeholders of the LGA, the convener and wife of the Council Chairman, Mrs. Onyinye Obeagu, commended Governor Mbah for prioritising grassroots development, adding that the governor’s wife had greatly impacted the women and children of Isi-Uzo through her charity outreach platform, Custos Care Foundation.

    “Isi-Uzo women have never benefited so much like this under any administration. We cannot thank our governor enough for all the projects going on across Isi-Uzo as well as some completed ones.

    “We thank the Governor for the Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres and Smart Green Schools either ongoing or completed in all the wards of Isi-Uzo.

    “We thank the First Lady for all she has done in Isi-Uzo and across the state courtesy of the Custos Care Foundation. This Foundation has greatly impacted the health and welfare of our women and children. Therefore, we shall continue to give our unflinching support to this government,” she noted.

    The Council Chairman, Barr. Obiora Obeagu, also extolled Mrs. Mbah for her motherly role in championing women’s development.

    “Isi-Uzo stands firmly with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, as we work together to build a prosperous and inclusive Enugu State. Our mothers and daughters are the strength of our communities, and we thank you for standing by them,” he declared.

    Barr. Obeagu assured the First Lady that his administration would continue to prioritise women empowerment, also ensuring that they were active partners in the development drive of the Council.

    Responding, the Wife of the Governor, who was represented at the convention by Barr. Chidinmma Egonu, commended the women of Isi-Uzo for their industry and loyalty to the present administration and encouraged them to use the opportunity of the convention to create bonds, learn and develop capacity to unlock their many potential.

    “I am deeply touched by the love and solidarity I have seen today in Isi-Uzo. Women are the heartbeat of every society, and this administration is committed to empowering you with opportunities in health, education, agriculture, and skills development,” she assured.

    She further encouraged women to remain united and continue supporting the government’s vision.

    “Together, we will build stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger Enugu State. I celebrate your resilience today,” Mrs. Mbah concluded.

    Speaking, Mrs. Mbah, who was represented by the Managing Director, Custo Care Foundation, Dr. Blessing Egodi, commended Governor Mbah for the improved security in the state and the women of Isi-Uzo for their resilience and prevailing peace in their communities.

    Also speaking, the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Ify Ani-Osheku, commended the effort of the Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Council on areas of health especially for enrolling 5,000 persons in the Health Insurance Scheme.

    Dr. Ani-Osheku also enjoined the galaxy of women at the event to support the present administration in Enugu State and join in raising the bar of governance.

    The highpoint of the convention was the distribution of empowerment packages and palliatives, including bags of rice, wrappers, and other household essentials to the women amidst chants of joy.

    Women, especially widows, who received the items expressed gratitude to the First Lady, pledging to extend the goodwill to families across the LGA.

    The event also featured colourful cultural dances, solidarity songs, and drama sketches by women groups showcasing the role of women in development.

  • Anambra: Gov’t has failed to secure lives, property – LP’s Moghalu

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, on Wednesday continued his community-to-community campaign tour with visits to Umuoba Anam, Aguleri, and Enugwu-Aguleri in Anambra East Local Government Area.

    He was warmly received by stakeholders, party members, and enthusiastic supporters, as he sought their prayers, partnership, and votes ahead of the November 8 election.

    In his address, Dr. Moghalu lamented the dwindling confidence of the people in government, stressing that insecurity, the controversial aka-odo taxation system, and poor leadership have crippled investment and development in Anambra. He insisted that people would willingly pay taxes only when they see sincerity and fairness in governance.

    “Anambra is not where it ought to be because government has failed to secure lives and property. Leadership must show transparency, justice, and compassion. That is the Labour Party’s vision, and that is what I stand for,” he affirmed.

    Dr. Muoghalu recalled the era of former Governor Peter Obi when elders enjoyed stipends and access to free healthcare, noting that governance must return to policies that directly improve lives. He urged the people to place their trust in him, promising to lead with accountability and compassion.

    “Give me your confidence, place your trust in me, and I will come back here to say thank you. My prayer is that you all live long to witness the new Anambra we will build together,” Moghalu pledged.

    Earlier in the day, Dr. Moghalu paid homage to traditional rulers, including HRM Dr. Michael C. Idigo, Igwe of Aguleri; HRM Eze Chukwuemeka Eri of Iduu Eri Kingdom; and HRM Igwe George Obalim Ekwealor (KSJI), Igwe of Umuoba Anam Kingdom. The royal fathers, impressed by his humility, offered prayers and blessings for his success.

    They commended him for being the first candidate to visit their palaces and urged him to remain steadfast, declaring: “Let the will of God be done. That is what Anambra needs. When the right things are done, peace and progress will follow.”

  • Moghalu Calls For Partnership With The Church

    …Promises to end illegal taxes as he seeks the support of Onitsha Sports Club

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, on Sunday worshipped at St. Andrews Cathedral Methodist Church of Nigeria, Awada, where he sought the prayers and support of the Church in the task of rebuilding Anambra. He reminded the congregation that only God can perfect the efforts of man, stressing that governance without divine guidance will always fall short.

    This is also as the former NIWA Boss promised to end illegal taxes during an interaction with the members of Onitsha Sports Club to seek their support to his governorship ambition.

    Speaking with deep concern, Moghalu declared that Anambra is at a critical crossroads.

    “In governance, you only give what you have. Our state is overwhelmed by insecurity, agriculture has collapsed, and education is lagging behind. WAEC has announced computer-based exams, yet we have no functional e-schools in Anambra. These issues must be urgently addressed if we are to secure a better future for our children,” he lamented.

    He appealed to the clergy and faithful to journey with him through prayers and partnership, assuring them of a people-centered government if elected.

    “Men of God, I cannot do it alone. Pray for me, let us walk this path together. I give you my assurance that I will not fail you, and I will not fail God. Unless the Lord builds the house, the efforts of man are in vain,” Moghalu affirmed.

    Rt. Rev. E. C. Nnaji (Bishop of Nnewi Diocese), Rt. Rev. M. O. Nwakama (Bishop of Awka Diocese), and His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. V. C. E. Onoh (Bishop of Onitsha and Archbishop of Anambra Diocese), prayed for him, commending his sincerity and courage.

    They wished him well in his governorship journey and declared that “the will of God be done in Anambra State.”

    ONITSHA WILL WITNESS END OF TOUTS AND ILLEGAL TAX UNDER MY WATCH – MOGHALU

    Speaking during his visit to the club, Moghalu thanked the leadership for the opportunity, noting that Onitsha remains the political and economic hub of Anambra. He stressed that his campaign is built on experience, vision, and a commitment to restore sanity to governance.

    Addressing the gathering, Moghalu lamented the worsening insecurity and the stifling atmosphere created by multiple taxation and harassment of traders by touts popularly called Agbero. He vowed that under his administration, insecurity would be decisively tackled through strengthened community policing, technology-driven security systems, and effective collaboration with security agencies.

    “We cannot continue like this. Investors have abandoned Anambra because they fear for their safety. I will make Anambra a safe haven again,” he assured.

    On the issue of revenue collection, Moghalu promised to completely abolish the activities of illegal tax collectors and touts who harass traders and transporters on the roads. He maintained that his government would introduce a transparent, digitalized tax system that ensures fairness, protects businesses, and promotes investment.

    “I will end the reign of Agbero and illegal levies that suffocate our traders. Under my watch, revenue will go to government coffers, not into private pockets,” he declared to loud applause.

    The President of Onitsha Sports Club, Chief Daniel Olisa Okafor, and business icon, Chief Godwin Ubaka Okeke, founder of GUO Motors, were among the dignitaries present.

    Moghalu appealed for their advice, support, and partnership, pledging that his government will prioritize security, economic revival, and a business-friendly environment where hardworking Anambra people can thrive without fear or extortion.

  • Enugu: Group Backs Gov. Peter Mbah, Says Performance Will Secure 2027 Re-Election

    Enugu: Group Backs Gov. Peter Mbah, Says Performance Will Secure 2027 Re-Election

    The Enugu State Unity Forum has lauded Governor Peter Mbah’s transformational leadership, expressing confidence that his performance will secure him a second term in 2027.

    The Forum made this known when they paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Ogbodo, at the council headquarters on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Emeka Nwatu, who’s the Coordinator of the Enugu State Unity Forum in Enugu East Senatorial Zone noted that the people of Enugu State were eager to repay Governor Mbah for the good things he has continued to do in the state.

    “Gov. Peter Mbah has performed so well that Ndi Enugu is eager to show him love by re-electing him come 2027″.

    Dr. Nwatu described Governor Mbah as a visionary and transformational leader who came prepared to reposition Enugu State for greatness. He said residents are pleased with his administration and have shown readiness to return him to office.

    The coordinator further revealed that the group will inaugurate its local government and ward structures for Nkanu West in October.

    “These structures will galvanize support for Dr. Peter Mbah’s second-term bid. Our major job is to let people know the good works of the governor while appealing to them to support him,” he explained.

    During the visit, Nwatu also introduced Sir Ikechukwu Okeke as the coordinator of the Nkanu West LGA chapter and ESV Edison Ozo-Edeh as secretary.

    In his remarks, council chairman Hon. Ogbodo commended the forum for what he described as “marketing a good product,” adding that their efforts would make his campaign for the governor easier.

    “The good works of the governor have equally made the task of campaigning for the governor so simple and quite easy,” Ogbodo said.

    He highlighted some of Mbah’s achievements in Nkanu West, including the Amodu–Akpugo–Akpwfu–Amagunze road, the construction of 14 Type 2 hospitals, and Smart Green Schools across the 14 wards.

    “In all these, the governor has committed over one billion naira in all the 260 wards across the state. In our humble way, we have done quite a number of projects: we have completed a toilet facility at Eke Agbani Market, we are at the painting stage of a modern abattoir, we have three boreholes, and work is ongoing at the Ozalla Motor Park, not forgetting the urban renewal activities,” the chairman stated.

    In a vote of thanks, members of the Unity Forum praised the council chairman for the warm reception, noting that they were surprised at the scale of projects he had executed, describing him as “Governor Peter Mbah’s replica.”

    Also present during the visit was the Secretary of Nkanu West, Prince Barr. Onochie Igwesi.

  • Anambra 2025: National Coalition For Good Governance Pledges Support For Moghalu

    Anambra 2025: National Coalition For Good Governance Pledges Support For Moghalu

    …As Moghalu Calls For Prayers To Rescue Anambra

    The National Coalition for Good Governance (CGG) has thrown its weight behind the governorship bid of the Labour Party candidate, Chief Dr. George Moghalu, following the inauguration of its Anambra State chapter at Marble Arch Hotel and Suites, Awka.

    The event was attended by both the state and national leadership of CGG, alongside party faithful, community leaders, and professionals, all united in their demand for a new direction in Anambra politics.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Moghalu said the endorsement reaffirmed his conviction that the movement for a greater Anambra was firmly on track. He lamented the worsening insecurity in the state, which, according to him, has crippled economic activities and discouraged investors.

    “Anambra is not where it is supposed to be. This is the only state in the world where they use Aka Odo to collect tax. The level of insecurity now is alarming and it is affecting everyone. That is why we have not attracted any investment. But if you see these challenges today, by this time next year you shall see them no more,” he declared.

    Moghalu also emphasized that leadership is about service and sacrifice, not personal gain.

    “The only duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments. Nobody is remembered for personal success; people are remembered for their contributions to humanity. When you demand equity and good governance, you are demanding the right thing. November 8th is not just an election; it is a serious business. I am running on the platform of the Labour Party to give our people the government they deserve. As you think about me, think about Peter Obi — because I will always support him, and together we will restore our state.”

    In his remarks, the National Chairman of CGG, Hon. Engr. Okey Chikwendu, described Moghalu as a man of unquestionable integrity and a leader whose record of service has remained consistent.

    “I have known him over the years; his integrity is intact. He is credible, and I can attest to him. I am glad he is here today and I thank him for what he has done for us. We will support him one hundred percent,” Chikwendu assured, as the hall erupted in applause.

    MOGHALU CALLS FOR PRAYERS TO RESCUE ANAMBRA

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Chief Dr. George Moghalu, has called on Christians to remember him in prayers as Anambra prepares for the November 8 election. Speaking at a church dinner in Nnewi hosted by the Jesus House Mega Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Moghalu said the state is passing through difficult times, marked by insecurity and a collapsed education system. “The God I serve rules in the affairs of men. Power belongs to Him, and He gives it to whomever He pleases. Just remember me in prayers for God to use me to change the story of this state,” he declared.

    Moghalu lamented that under previous leadership, Anambra was steadily rising in education but has now dropped to 33rd position. He emphasized that his ambition was not driven by desperation but by service to humanity. “When the righteous are in power, the people rejoice. Nobody is remembered for personal wealth but for impact on humanity, and that is the legacy I seek. Trust me, I will not betray your confidence,” he said.

    In his response, the Pastor in charge, Pastor Isaac, prayed for Moghalu’s protection and success, asking God to grant him the desires of his heart. He also prayed that peace would reign in Anambra, declaring that the will of God would prevail in the coming election.

  • Anambra Decides: Obi, Ozodinobi Join Moghalu in LP Guber Campaign in Anambra Central [VIDEO]

    The Labour Party campaign in Anambra received a powerful boost as Hon. George Ozodinobi (Aja-Ajanze), Member representing Anaocha, Dunukofia, and Njikoka Federal Constituency, hosted the party’s Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, and former Governor Peter Obi at a mini rally in Nimo.

    From Oye Nimo to Egwegwe Square, the campaign drew jubilant crowds who cheered the Labour Party train, reinforcing the Recovery Agenda message across Anambra Central, according to a statement from the George Moghalu Media Center.

    Dr. Moghalu, addressing the charged audience, declared that he was not afraid of the coming election, insisting that victory is assured by the Grace of God.

    He accused the current administration of hoarding public funds only to bring them out for vote buying, while workers are denied the correct minimum wage and some teachers earn as little as ₦30,000 monthly. He lamented that Anambra has become a constant feature in the news for negative reasons—ranging from cult killings to kidnappings, and even killings linked to government-backed security operatives.

    “It is only in this state that thugs known as Aka Odo are empowered to extort the people and collect illegal taxes. The governor has run out of ideas, especially on insecurity, and Anambra deserves better. Our people love the Labour Party, and our task is to go door to door, mobilize, and ensure they come out to vote for us. We will win together as one family,” Moghalu said.

    In his remarks, Mr. Peter Obi reaffirmed his total support for Moghalu and thanked the host for mobilizing the people. He urged voters to resist inducement, warning that any money shared during elections was simply stolen public funds.

    “During my time as governor, campaigns were issue-based. We equipped schools with computers, generators, and internet access, and provided vehicles for community vigilantes. Today, those things have disappeared because resources are wasted on vote buying instead of development,” Obi lamented, urging Ndi Anambra not to mortgage their future.

    Both Moghalu and Obi condemned the recent altercations and campaign of calumny by some candidates, stating that “what we are saying and writing against each other today, is there for our children to read on social media tomorrow, and this is not the society we intend to grow”

    They expressed deep gratitude to the host, Hon. George Ozodinobi, for his steadfastness and commitment.

    In his closing message, Ozodinobi urged his constituents, Anambra central and Ndi Anambra at large to vote massively for the Labour Party in the November governorship election, stressing that the state’s future would be safer and brighter under Dr. George Moghalu’s leadership, who he said has the solutions to restore peace, rebuild institutions, and deliver good governance.

  • Anambra Decides: Moghalu Inaugurates Volunteers, Urges Youths to Join Recovery Agenda

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the November 8 Anambra governorship election, Dr. George Moghalu, on Wednesday inaugurated the George Moghalu Volunteers at Anaedo Hall, Nnewi, describing the group as the vanguard of a new movement to recover and rebuild Anambra.

    The hall was filled with enthusiastic supporters, stakeholders and community leaders who pledged their commitment to the Recovery Agenda.

    In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Johnson Okoye, Moghalu expressed deep gratitude to the volunteers for standing firm with the vision, while specially thanking the State Coordinator, Dr. Wilcox, for his tireless leadership and organizational drive. He said the coordinator’s role has been instrumental in galvanizing the grassroots and giving practical expression to the ideals of the movement.

    Moghalu stressed that his project is not about seeking people who will work for him but about raising true partners who will work with him to restore Anambra’s pride of place. According to him, the Recovery Agenda is a call to service, unity and collective sacrifice for the future of the state.

    He therefore urged Ndi Anambra, especially the youths, women and men across communities, to enlist in the movement by registering through his campaign website, georgemoghalu.com.ng/get-involved

    Moghalu assured that with sincerity of purpose and the determination of the people, Anambra will rise again as a beacon of commerce, progress and hope in Igboland and Nigeria.

  • [WATCH] BREAKING: Gov. Fubara Arrives Rivers State

    [WATCH] BREAKING: Gov. Fubara Arrives Rivers State

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has arrived Rivers state following the cessation of the state of emergency rule.

    Fubara arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport at about 11:50 a.m. on Friday and was greeted by a crowd of supporters who had earlier converged at the VIP wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, awaiting his arrival.

    A video shared by Channels TV showed the crowd erupt with joy the moment he alighted the private jet, while he waved.

    …More details later

  • Fubara yet to return following cessation of state of emergency in Rivers

    Fubara yet to return following cessation of state of emergency in Rivers

    Thousands of supporters, who had thronged Government House, Port Harcourt, on Thursday to welcome the reinstated Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, went home disappointed after he failed to appear.

    Fubara was scheduled to resume duties as Governor of Rivers State on Thursday, following the end of the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state by President Bola Tinubu on March 18.

    This comes after the President, on Wednesday, announced an end to the emergency rule, which ended the six-month tenure of ex-naval chief, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), as Rivers’ sole administrator.

    Rivers State has faced one of Nigeria’s fiercest political crises, pitting Fubara against his predecessor and FCT minister, Nyesom Wike. Once allies, their fallout over control of state structures and resources split the House of Assembly, sparking impeachment moves, protests, and violence, including the burning of the Assembly complex.

    President Tinubu intervened with a peace deal, which failed to calm frayed nerves, before the declaration of emergency rule.

    As tempers flared, locals and ex-agitators threatened to destroy oil installations should Fubara be impeached, as threatened by the pro-Wike Martin Amaewhule-led state House of Assembly through a notice sent to the governor.

    A day before Tinubu imposed emergency rule, an explosion rocked a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline in the Bodo Community of Gonna Local Government Area in Rivers State. The following day, another explosion severed a pipeline manifold in the Omwawriwa axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of the State.

    In a statement on the cessation of the emergency rule on Wednesday, made available by the Presidency, the President said, “The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from September 18, 2025…

    “It, therefore, gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today (Wednesday).”

    Many of Fubara’s supporters thronged the gate of the Government House along Azikiwe Street, Port Harcourt, as early as 6am on Thursday, arriving from different parts of the state to await the governor’s return.

    By about 2pm, when it became clear that Fubara was unlikely to show up, the supporters began leaving in droves, many of them wearing long, gloomy faces.

    Some political leaders loyal to Fubara — including former local government chairmen recently sacked after the Supreme Court nullified elections held under his administration — were seen making frantic phone calls as they tried to ascertain the governor’s whereabouts.

    Among the governor’s allies at the scene were former Commissioner for Housing, Evans Bipi; former Commissioner for Power, Solomon Eke; former Commissioner for Youths, Chisom Gbala; and Prince Emejuru, each leading their supporters to the Government House in anticipation of Fubara’s return.

    Also sighted were sacked local government chairmen Chijoke Ihunwo, Ezebunwo Ichemati, Peter Amakiri, and Promise Reginald.

    Pro-Fubara lawmakers in attendance included former factional Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo, Sokari Goodboy, and others.

    Former Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning, Emejuru, said, “Rivers people are happy that Governor Fubara has been reinstated. Just look at the streets and you will see who the true leader of Rivers State is. Sim represents the people, and the people represent Sim Fubara.”

    Meanwhile, no supporters of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike — including the newly elected local government chairmen — were sighted at the Government House.

    An aide of the governor, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, said Fubara was in Abuja but would return on Friday (today).

    “The governor is in Abuja. He will be coming to Port Harcourt to resume work on Friday. That is all I can say for now,” he stated.

     According to PUNCH, Fubara’s failure to show up on Thursday was partly due to ongoing talks on important appointments in the state.

    According to multiple sources, Wike is allegedly insisting that the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, and the majority of the commissioners that will be appointed by Fubara come from his camp.

    The sources said that had the negotiations been concluded early, Fubara would have returned to Rivers, but that the drama had lasted till late on Thursday.

    “We can’t say for now if any agreement has been reached,” one of the sources in Abuja told our correspondent.

    However, speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme, on Thursday, Wike distanced himself from the allegations, insisting he would not interfere with Fubara’s administration.

    “I cannot go and impose anything on the governor. Why would I impose anything on the governor? Assuming I go to the governor and say, ‘I want this,’ will the state collapse? I will not. I have no candidate, and I will not,” Wike said.

    Wike dismissed concerns over Fubara’s absence following his reinstatement.

    He added, “I am not his (Fubara) protocol officer. There is no law that says he must resume work today (Thursday). He is a governor. I don’t understand the way we operate. Being sworn in today does not mean I will go to the office tomorrow.

    “You don’t know what my programmes are. You don’t know where he is. Governance does not mean one must be in the office to govern.”

    When pressed further on Fubara’s whereabouts, Wike responded, “I am not his Chief Security Officer. I am not his protocol officer.”