Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has vowed to implement the recommendations of the State Commission of Inquiry into the destruction of local government secretariats, regardless of who is implicated. The governor made the commitment during the presentation of the commission’s report by its Chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Fubara emphasized the need to end what he called “unreasonable violence in politics,” asserting that politics should be a contest of ideas rather than a breeding ground for destruction and hostility. “There are no permanent enemies or friends in politics,” he stated, highlighting the importance of accountability in governance.

The governor expressed disbelief that individuals who once contributed to the development of council buildings could later destroy their legacies. He linked those responsible for the recent attacks to earlier violent incidents, including court bombings ahead of the 2015 elections.

“Why would anyone oppose a commission that seeks to uncover the truth?” Fubara questioned, as he commended the commission for completing its work despite legal and other challenges aimed at derailing the inquiry. He reiterated his stance that no one, including himself, is above the law.

Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, Chairman of the seven-member commission, detailed the methodology used to compile the report, including visits to affected areas such as Khana, Eleme, Ikwerre, Emohua, and Obio/Akpor. The commission’s work, concluded on November 28, included memoranda, exhibits, and records of proceedings, compiled into a four-volume report.

Justice Minakiri noted that the inquiry uncovered hidden truths about the state’s political violence and recommended measures to prevent recurrence. She urged the governor to implement the findings to restore peace and stability in Rivers State.

The report revealed that some individuals indicted by the memoranda failed to appear before the commission to defend themselves. Minakiri expressed hope that the recommendations, if implemented, would deter future violence and reinforce accountability across the state.

Governor Fubara’s pledge to act on the report signals a strong stance against impunity in Rivers State politics. The move is expected to address long-standing issues of political violence while fostering stability and trust in governance.