Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called for calm and urged residents to remain peaceful amidst the ongoing political turmoil in the state, following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu. The state of emergency, which includes a six-month suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly, was announced by the president on Tuesday in a nationwide broadcast aimed at restoring stability to the South-South region.
In a statement he personally signed and released to the media on Wednesday, Fubara addressed the people of Rivers State with a strong sense of responsibility, reaffirming his commitment to the constitutional oath he took upon assuming office. He assured the people that his leadership has always been focused on the protection of lives and property, and on ensuring the state’s continuous development despite the ongoing political challenges.
“Since I took office as your governor, I have prioritized the safety and well-being of our people, and the advancement of our state,” Fubara stated. “Even amid the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order, always placing the interests of our people first.”
The governor emphasized that, following President Tinubu’s intervention to mediate peace in the state, he took immediate action to implement the terms of the peace agreement, which included welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned voluntarily. Furthermore, he quickly complied with the Supreme Court’s judgment once the certified true copy was received, aiming to restore normalcy in the state.
He continued, stating that these steps were not taken for personal gain but rather to ensure peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State. However, Fubara expressed frustration that efforts to bring genuine peace were repeatedly hindered by members of the state’s House of Assembly, which made progress difficult to achieve.
“While we have had our political disagreements, the government has remained focused on its core duties. Salaries have been paid, essential projects have continued, and above all, Rivers State remains secure, peaceful, and safe under our leadership,” he added.
Fubara urged the people of Rivers to stay calm and law-abiding during this critical period, reaffirming that his government would continue to work with all relevant institutions to uphold democracy and ensure the prosperity of the state. “We are a resilient people, and with patience, wisdom, and a strong faith in our democratic processes, we will overcome this challenge,” he said.
In response to the ongoing crisis, President Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency is seen as an effort to restore order and stability to the state, which has been rocked by political discord between the governor and the legislature. As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the state’s administrator, who will oversee governance in the interim.
This bold move by the federal government follows the escalating political conflict in Rivers State, where Governor Fubara and members of the state House of Assembly have been locked in a power struggle, causing disruptions in governance.
