Rivers State Government Marks Transition to Democratic Governance with Thanksgiving Service

The Rivers State Government has announced a significant step towards restoring democratic governance in the state with an inter-denominational church thanksgiving service.

The event, scheduled for Sunday at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt, aims to bring together key stakeholders to mark the transition from emergency rule.

According to a statement issued by Secretary to the State Government, Ibibia Worika, prominent individuals expected to attend include permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, heads of state security and paramilitary agencies, traditional rulers, and captains of industry.

Guests are advised to arrive by 9:30 am, with the service set to begin at 10 am.

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

The government’s decision to hold this thanksgiving service underscores its commitment to ushering in a new era of democratic governance.

This development follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The emergency rule was put in place to address a deep-seated political crisis and restore constitutional order.

With the judiciary left intact during the emergency, the government has taken steps to stabilize the state and ensure a smooth transition to democratic governance.

The thanksgiving service is seen as a crucial milestone in this process.