Rivers State Holds Thanksgiving Service Amid Emergency Rule Transition—Wike and Fubara Notably Absent
As Rivers State edges closer to the end of its six-month state of emergency, the government marked the occasion with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service on September 14, 2025. The event at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt symbolized a return to democratic governance, but the absence of key figures Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara underscored lingering political tensions in the oil-rich Niger Delta state.
The Thanksgiving Service: A Symbolic Step Toward Normalcy
The ceremony, attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders, served as the kickoff to transition activities following the emergency rule imposed on March 18, 2025. Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the state’s administrator during the emergency period, was the special guest of honor, delivering a message of gratitude for stability amid turmoil.
Organized by the Rivers State Government, the service invited permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security heads, and captains of industry to reflect on the crisis’s resolution. It highlighted themes of reconciliation and progress, with prayers for a smooth handover to elected officials. The event drew a modest crowd, focusing on unity rather than fanfare, as the state prepares for full democratic restoration by September 18.
The Emergency Rule: A Timeline of Political Turmoil
President Bola Tinubu declared the state of emergency on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. The move followed a fierce political crisis between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike—now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—over control of state resources and the assembly.
The fallout escalated in late 2023 when 27 pro-Wike lawmakers defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to the demolition of the assembly complex and legal battles. Tinubu’s intervention, via a nationwide broadcast, accused Fubara of “unconstitutional and despotic” actions, including threats to federal oil production from militants. The Supreme Court later upheld the defectors’ status, criticizing Fubara’s conduct.
By June 2025, Wike and Fubara publicly reconciled during a visit to Tinubu, easing hostilities. The August 30 local government elections saw Wike’s allies win 20 of 23 seats, signaling his influence. With the emergency set to expire on September 18, Fubara’s return as governor is anticipated, though sources confirm he remains in London as of September 12.
Wike and Fubara’s Absence: A Sign of Lingering Rifts?
The thanksgiving service’s high-profile no-shows fueled speculation. Wike, who confirmed the emergency’s end on August 30 while voting in the LG polls, was absent despite his pivotal role in the reconciliation. Fubara, suspended since March, was also missing—his aides say he’s still abroad, adding to questions about his readiness to resume duties.
Analysts see the absences as tactical. “Wike’s influence is clear from the LG wins, but showing up might signal overreach,” said a Port Harcourt-based political commentator. Fubara’s delay could stem from health or strategic reasons, though supporters worry about power vacuums. Social media buzzed with #RiversTransition, users noting, “No Wike, no Fubara—same old drama?” with 15,000 posts.
Public and Expert Reactions: Hope Mixed with Caution
The service drew praise for its unifying tone, with Ibas urging “healing and progress.” Traditional rulers and security chiefs attended, emphasizing stability in the oil hub. Experts like Prof. Okey Ibeanu called it a “positive ritual,” but warned of fragility: “Reconciliation papers over cracks—true peace needs inclusive governance.”
Fubara’s PDP allies celebrated the end of “Wike’s siege,” while APC figures lauded the LG polls as a “win for democracy.” On X, reactions split: Optimists hailed “a new chapter,” skeptics quipped, “Absences say it all—battle resumes September 19.”
Implications for Rivers: Economy, Politics, and Beyond
Rivers, Nigeria’s fourth-largest economy, relies on oil for 70% of revenue—stability here affects national GDP. The emergency stabilized production but stalled projects; Fubara’s return could unlock $2 billion in investments, per local analysts. Politically, it tests Tinubu’s balancing act between Wike’s federal clout and Fubara’s grassroots base, with 2027 elections looming.
For everyday Nigerians, it means potential relief from fuel shortages and youth unrest, but risks renewed clashes if power-sharing falters. Globally, it underscores Nigeria’s federal tensions, impacting foreign oil firms.
Conclusion: A Thanksgiving with Unanswered Questions
Rivers State’s thanksgiving service marked a hopeful pivot from emergency rule, but Wike and Fubara’s absences hint at unresolved feuds. As September 18 approaches, the state braces for Fubara’s return and democratic revival. With reconciliation fragile, the real test lies ahead—can Rivers unite for progress, or will old rivalries resurface? Watch for updates as the transition unfolds.