Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reassured residents that the ongoing political turmoil in the state will ultimately strengthen them. He expressed optimism, stating, “We will emerge stronger” and encouraged his supporters to remain steadfast despite the crisis.
Fubara made these remarks while receiving Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, during a Sallah visit at his private residence in Port Harcourt.
“This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and made a great sacrifice through your prayers,” he said, urging everyone to trust in God’s process.
Acknowledging the emotional toll the situation has taken on the people, Fubara emphasized that the current political challenges might have a higher purpose.
“We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness,” he affirmed.
He also called for patience and perseverance, drawing an analogy from religious history, noting that “If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”
Fubara cautioned his supporters against being provoked into violence by those seeking to destabilize the state, stressing, “Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that.”
Meanwhile, Muslim leaders, led by Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, reaffirmed their support for the suspended governor, citing his inclusive approach to governance and recognition of the Islamic faith in a predominantly Christian state. They also called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in Rivers and restore Fubara’s full authority.
The political crisis continues to spark legal and political battles in the state, with civil society organizations planning to sue the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), over the unlawful spending of state funds.