Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his family are currently being held hostage by heavily armed soldiers at the Government House in Port Harcourt, an event that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Rivers State and beyond.
The alarming development unfolded just moments after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing a deepening political crisis fueled by a contentious power struggle. The declaration has led to heightened tensions, with security forces swiftly taking control of the Government House and restricting movement in and out of the premises.
The crisis stems from an ongoing political feud between Governor Fubara and lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, who played a significant role in Fubara’s election in 2023. However, their alliance quickly deteriorated, leading to an intense power struggle that has now culminated in an attempted impeachment of the governor.
In response to escalating tensions, military forces took drastic action by barricading all entry and exit points of the Government House, effectively trapping Governor Fubara, his family, and key government officials inside. This sudden and forceful intervention has raised serious concerns about the rule of law and the balance of power within the state.
According to People’s Gazette, government officials attempted to pack their belongings and leave the premises, but they were stopped by the soldiers, who refused to grant them passage. The atmosphere remains tense as those inside the residence find themselves completely cut off from the outside world.
One affected official, speaking to The Gazette on Tuesday night from inside the Government House, described the dire situation:
“We are being held hostage. They said they don’t have instructions to let anyone leave the premises.”
At this point, it remains unclear whether the soldiers are strictly following directives from higher authorities or if they have taken matters into their own hands with an overzealous approach to securing the area.
This shocking turn of events has sparked nationwide discussions on the implications of military involvement in political affairs and the potential consequences for democracy in Rivers State. As tensions continue to rise, many are eagerly awaiting further updates on the unfolding crisis and the fate of Governor Fubara and his family.