The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said there is no law that forces Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to resume office immediately after the end of emergency rule in the state.
President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday announced the lifting of the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State. The directive followed reports that peace had returned after months of political tension between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
President Tinubu also directed Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly to resume official duties on Thursday.
However, when a large crowd gathered at the Rivers State Government House in anticipation of the governor’s return, Fubara did not show up. The crowd later dispersed after hours of waiting.
Reacting, Wike said the governor cannot be forced to appear on a particular day.
“There is no law that says he must resume work today. He is the governor. People don’t know his schedule or where he is. Being sworn in one day does not mean you must appear in office the very next day,” Wike explained.
His comment has sparked fresh debate among Rivers residents, many of whom are eager to see Governor Fubara back in office.
