The Rivers State Government has formally announced the commencement of its transition from emergency rule to democratic governance.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, revealed that the process would begin with an interdenominational church thanksgiving service.

The service is scheduled to hold on Sunday at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt, at 10 a.m. Guests have been asked to be seated by 9:30 a.m.

Stakeholders invited to thanksgiving service

Prof. Worika said the event would bring together key stakeholders across the state, including permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, heads of state security agencies, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and members of governing boards.

“The Government of Rivers State is pleased to invite the Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Chairmen, Heads of State Security and Para-Military Agencies, Traditional Rulers, Chairmen and members of Boards and Governing Councils, Captains of industries, Government Officials and invited guests to the Inter-Denominational Church Thanksgiving Service, as part of transition activities to usher in Democratic Governance in Rivers State,” the SSG stated.

Sole administrator to grace occasion

The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), will serve as the Special Guest of Honour at the thanksgiving service.

The announcement comes as part of efforts to restore full democratic authority in the state, paving the way for Governor Siminalayi Fubara to resume full control of governance after months under emergency rule.