Tension Abates In Rivers As SA Ibas Denies Attempts To Muzzle Fubara∴
By Jonas Happy
Governor Siminalayi Fubara not wanted by the Sole Administrator, Ibok-Ette Ibas.After days of widespread public agitation sparked off across the nation by claims that Tinubu’s Administrator, Ibokette Ibas has officially summoned Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to Government House to offer explanations on appointments made by his administration, there are at least sighs of relief as tension gradually abates.
Fubara who was suspended from office in very controversial circumstances will not be appearing before the Admiral as widely speculated, a State Government statement issued in Port Harcourt has said.
The latest statement has not only helped, sources say to lower tensions, it has also emphasized that the purported invitation extended to the Governor was fake.
The elected Governor, according to a statement which earlier circulated on social media and other media platforms, was expected on Friday, that is today, to appear in person at 10.00am.
He was to be accompanied by his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, that statement had also claimed.
The statement allegedly released by the Secretary to Government, Ibibia Worika which drew considerable public opinion read:
“The Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, CFR, has formally summoned the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu, to appear before him for an inquiry into the appointments made under their administration over the past two years.
“Sir Fubara is directed to present all relevant documents and records pertaining to appointments, including justifications and procedures followed during his tenure.
“The session will also serve as an opportunity for the suspended Governor to provide a clear and detailed explanation as to why he believes he should be reinstated to office.
“Both parties are expected to appear in person.”
Across the country, prominent Nigerians as well as civil society organisations were on the same page in their demand. They urged Governor Fubara to ignore the invitation to appear before Ibas.
Professor Odinka Kalu who openly urged the Rivers Governor not to honour the invitation said there was no reason why Fubara must make the trip to Government House.
Ruffai Oseni, a TV anchor said on X that such an invitation to an elected governor is only possible in Nigeria.
Indeed, it was the height. Observers say it was more like rubbing more salt on the surface of an open sour.
In Rivers State where tension has been building, Rivers people expressed serious reservations as popular anger welled on the heels of a statement that was seen as provocative, insulting and humiliating.
The actions of Ibas had provoked demonstrations on the street as Rivers people rallied and their women turned out in large numbers to express their preferences in defence of democracy.
Nonetheless, the picture emerging from the Rivers State capital where Ibas has been demolishing democratic structures suggest that the Fubara invitation was a lie.
At least, after days of apprehension, this what has come out as the official reaction of the Ibas administration.