Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, has returned to Port Harcourt, the state capital, two days after President Bola Tinubu lifted the emergency rule imposed on the state.

The governor touched down at Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, at exactly 12:11 p.m. He was in the company of his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and Edison Ehie, his former Chief of Staff. His arrival was heralded by a convoy from the Government House, which reached the airport ahead of him with heavy security presence.

Fubara, wearing dark sunglasses, stepped out to a rousing welcome from loyalists who had assembled at the airport as early as 6 a.m. Among those on hand to receive him were prominent figures, including former Commissioner for Information and Communications, Barrister Emma Okah; former Health Commissioner, Dr. Adaeze Oreh; Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the Netherlands, Oji Ngofa; ex-Commissioner for Environment, Sydney Gbara; and former factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo.

Also present were former Commissioner for Youths, Chisom Gbali; ex-Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi; one-time NUPENG President, Igwe Achese; former Education Commissioner, Dr. Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja; and past council chairmen of Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor, Ezebunwo Ichemati and Chijoke Ihunwo, among others.

Meanwhile, supporters of the governor staged a vibrant show of solidarity earlier in the day. They split into two groups—one gathering at the Government House in Port Harcourt, and the other at the airport. With drumming, singing, and dancing, they created a celebratory atmosphere, signaling their anticipation of Fubara’s return to active duty.