Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule with saving the state from a looming political crisis and “anarchy.”
Speaking at a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of the Simplified Movement in Port Harcourt to mark his two years in office, Fubara urged Rivers people and Nigerians to commend the President for his timely and wise intervention.
“I want to assure you that the issues will soon be resolved, and you will come back to your offices; not just at the executive arm, but also legislative arm. And I also believe that the strong relationships we had before will return, and we will begin to work together again, for the good and progress of the state. What is important is for us to have a forgiving spirit,” Fubara said.
He called on supporters to fully embrace the ongoing peace and reconciliation process, stressing that the state’s interest must take precedence over individual ambitions.
“We are already in the peace process. I want you to thank Mr. President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation and stabilise the polity and the State. If not for Mr. President, the story today would have been different. I don’t know how he gets his information, but the truth is that he acted with wisdom at the right time. He is the one you should thank,” he added.
Fubara expressed gratitude to the President for acting as a father figure to restore stability and assured of swift reconciliation with his predecessor, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
“There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga (in reference to the former governor). There will be peace. We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
Acknowledging the political turbulence of the past two years, he appealed for forgiveness from those disappointed by his handling of the crisis and pledged to continue earning the respect of the people.
He also hinted at forthcoming difficult decisions aimed at advancing the state’s interests, though without specifying details.
“Despite the turbulence that erupted in the state shortly after I became governor in 2023, the time has come to rebuild the state. Peace, reconciliation and forgiveness are essential to restoring normalcy and transforming infrastructure in the state,” Fubara said.
He reiterated his commitment to delivering dividends of democracy through progress in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, human capital development, and inclusion of women in governance.
“For your sacrifices, contributions, and the roles you’ve played in your respective capacities, I say a heartfelt thank you. As we look ahead, I reaffirm my pledge to consolidate on our gains and remain fully committed to the key priorities of this administration: peace, security, community welfare, and the socio-economic advancement of our state.”
