Rivers State Begins Transition from Emergency Rule to Democratic Governance

The Rivers State Government has formally announced the commencement of activities marking its transition from emergency rule to democratic governance.

A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, invited key stakeholders to an inter-denominational church thanksgiving service to be held Sunday at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnema Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.

Invited attendees include permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, heads of state security and paramilitary agencies, traditional rulers, chairmen and members of state boards, captains of industry, government officials and other stakeholders.

The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), will be the Special Guest of Honour.

This move follows nearly six months under emergency rule after President Bola Tinubu declared it in March 2025, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed to administer the state during that period.

The thanksgiving service is seen as a symbolic step towards restoring full democratic governance in Rivers State.