The whereabouts of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara remained unknown on Tuesday night as military trucks moved into the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt.
The deployment of military vehicles, stationed both inside and outside the premises, marked the first night of the state of emergency imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The emergency rule was declared in response to rising attacks on oil installations in the state and threats from militant groups, who had vowed to blow up pipelines if the Rivers State House of Assembly proceeded with Governor Fubara’s impeachment.
Hours after lawmakers served the governor with a notice of alleged misconduct, militants acted on their threats, prompting a swift military response. In reaction to the escalating violence, President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara and the lawmakers for six months, appointing an administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
Following the announcement, around 10 military trucks were seen patrolling roads leading to the Government House, with armored vehicles strategically positioned. The main route from the popular UTC Junction to the Government House was reportedly deserted, as residents hurried home to avoid any potential conflict.
A local resident, who requested anonymity, described the tense atmosphere: “The road leading to Government House from Isaac Boro Park to UTC is deserted. Residents are trying to get back to their homes as no one wants to be caught in a crossfire.”
As of press time, it was unclear whether Governor Fubara had vacated the Government House. However, sources within the government hinted that the governor may have anticipated the state of emergency.
Reports suggested that Fubara spent the day in meetings with members of the suspended state Executive Council. A former commissioner, who briefly spoke to Daily Trust by phone, confirmed he was in a meeting with the governor and promised to call back later, but did not do so before press time.
