Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has made a highly anticipated return to the state, following President Bola Tinubu's decision to lift the six-month emergency rule that had been imposed since March. His arrival in Port Harcourt on Friday marked a new chapter in the state's political landscape, which had been fraught with crisis stemming from his fallout with his predecessor and political godfather, Nyesom Wike, and the controversial suspension of his administration.

Thousands of Fubara's supporters, affectionately known as the "Simplified Family," had converged at the Government House in Port Harcourt as early as Thursday, expecting his immediate return after the emergency rule was lifted on Wednesday. However, their wait extended, leading to disappointment as the governor did not show up, with some supporters, including immediate past Local Government chairmen, angrily departing after hours of waiting.

The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) sharply criticized Governor Fubara for this delay. ADC Chairman, Chief Amb. Leader Sampson, stated that Fubara "spat at your faces," accusing him of disregard for his supporters under the alleged corrupt influence of the FCT minister. The ADC urged the Simplified Family to channel their political focus and allegiance to their party, promising a platform where they would not be used as "pawns."

Undeterred by the previous day's disappointment, supporters continued their vigil, with many gathering at the Port Harcourt International Airport in Omagwa, Ilwerre Local Government Area, on Friday. Governor Fubara, accompanied by his deputy Prof. Ngozi Odu, his wife Valerie Fubara, and Chief of Staff Edison Ehie, finally arrived via private jet around 11:50 a.m. to 12:19 p.m. He was greeted by an immense and jubilant crowd at the VIP wing and outside the premises.

Addressing the throngs of well-wishers at the airport and later upon his arrival at the Government House (Brick House), Governor Fubara expressed profound humility. He acknowledged being briefed on the Thursday gathering and stated, "I’m really humbled by what I saw at the airport today. I was also briefed with photography of what happened here yesterday. That reception really humbled me it showed love, confidence and solidarity. I want to say that it is not just a celebration but a massive reception." He further reaffirmed that the massive turnout was a "reaffirmation of the bond between this government and the people that we are serving."

Fubara reassured the Rivers people, promising, "We will, by the grace of God, continue to do those things that made you people love us." He also announced an official statewide broadcast scheduled for 6:00 p.m. the same day, where he intended to express appreciation to all stakeholders who were instrumental in restoring normalcy and peace to the state. His return to the official seat of power was met with widespread celebration, as seen in circulating videos and photos, marking the end of a tumultuous period.