Governor Fubara Urges Peace Amid Rivers State Crisis, Criticizes Legislative Obstruction

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement issued on Tuesday night, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to democracy, the rule of law, and the continued development of Rivers State.

The Governor’s remarks come in response to the escalating political tensions in the state in recent weeks. He reassured citizens that his government is actively engaging with all relevant institutions to uphold stability and safeguard democratic principles.

Fubara emphasized that since assuming office, his actions and decisions have been driven by his constitutional oath and a profound sense of duty. He reiterated that his administration’s foremost priorities are the protection of lives and property and ensuring the state’s continued progress.

He further underscored his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and constitutional order despite the political challenges faced. Fubara noted that his government had acted in good faith to implement peace agreements brokered by President Tinubu, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned.

“Following President Bola Tinubu’s intervention to restore peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith,” Fubara stated. “We also swiftly complied with the Supreme Court’s ruling as soon as we received the certified true copy of the judgment, aiming to restore normalcy in the state. These actions were taken not for personal gain but to foster peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State.”

However, the Governor expressed frustration over what he described as continuous obstruction by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Addressing the public, he said, “I speak to you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm as we navigate this difficult period in our state’s political history. Since assuming office as your Governor, every action and decision I have taken has been guided by my constitutional oath and a profound sense of duty.”

He reiterated, “We have prioritized the protection of lives and property while ensuring the continuous progress of our dear state. Despite the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, always putting the interest of our people above all else.”

Fubara continued, “This is why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we swiftly implemented the agreed terms in good faith, including reinstating commissioners who had voluntarily resigned. Additionally, we promptly complied with the Supreme Court’s judgment to return the state to normalcy.”

He further stated, “These steps were taken not for personal gain but to foster peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State. Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have frustrated our efforts, making genuine peace and progress difficult.”

The Governor emphasized, “Our priorities remain the security of lives and property, as well as advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people. Yes, there are political disagreements, but governance has continued. Salaries are being paid, and transformative projects are underway to propel the state forward. Above all, Rivers State remains safe, secure, and peaceful under our leadership.”

Fubara urged the people of Rivers State to stay calm and law-abiding. “At this critical time, I call on all Rivers people to remain peaceful and uphold the rule of law. We will continue to engage with all relevant institutions to ensure the strength of our democracy and the continued progress of Rivers State.”

He concluded, “We are a resilient people, and we will confront this challenge with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.”