Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a press statement addressing the recent state of emergency declared in the state by President Bola Tinubu.
In his statement, Fubara urged calm and resilience among the people of Rivers, emphasizing the need to prioritize peace, security, and the continued well-being of the state’s citizens.
“My dear Rivers People,” Fubara began, acknowledging the gravity of the current political situation. He expressed his deep responsibility and commitment to the people of Rivers State, despite the turbulent circumstances.
Fubara reiterated that his actions as Governor were always guided by his constitutional oath and a strong sense of duty.
He emphasized the administration’s focus on ensuring the security of lives and property, as well as advancing the prosperity of Rivers State, even amidst political challenges.
“Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty,” he stated. “We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.”
Despite political impasses, Fubara highlighted that his administration had remained dedicated to upholding the rule of law.
He pointed out that following the intervention of President Tinubu to broker peace, the Rivers State Government had taken steps in good faith to comply with the terms of the peace agreement.
“We did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition,” Fubara affirmed.
The suspended Governor also confirmed that his government complied promptly with the Supreme Court’s judgment, which sought to restore normalcy to the state after the legal dispute.
However, Fubara lamented that efforts to foster genuine peace had been thwarted by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
According to Fubara, these members hindered meaningful progress, despite the administration’s best efforts. “Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued,” he remarked.
He further emphasized that, despite these challenges, salaries had been paid, important projects were progressing, and Rivers remained a peaceful state under his leadership.
In his closing remarks, Fubara called on the people of Rivers to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
He urged citizens to maintain their resilience and trust in the democratic process, stressing that democracy must prevail for the state’s continued prosperity.
“I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive,” Fubara said.
He concluded by invoking hope and resilience, urging Rivers citizens to confront the situation with patience, wisdom, and faith in democracy.
“Rivers State is safe, secure, and peaceful under our watch,” he concluded, adding, “We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.”
In a moment of political uncertainty, Governor Fubara’s statement is a call for unity, peace, and adherence to the democratic process in the face of adversity.