Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that the six-month political crisis that gripped Rivers State is finally behind it, announcing a new era focused on reconciliation, inclusiveness, and accelerated development.
In a statewide broadcast on Friday, the Governor reflected on the period of emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, which followed a protracted power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Governor Fubara revealed he consciously chose not to challenge the constitutionality of the presidential declaration, which included the suspension of democratic institutions, in the interest of peace.
“We believe the political crisis is now behind us and that peace and stability have once again returned to Rivers, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule,” Fubara stated.
Addressing residents who may have felt apprehensive about the peace process, the Governor offered reassurance: “To those who have expressed genuine fears, frustrations, and uncertainty… I assure you that your concerns are valid and understood. However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness.”
He extended a call to the State House of Assembly, political leaders, and all stakeholders to set aside their differences and prioritize the collective interest of the state.
Fubara paid glowing tribute to President Tinubu for his pivotal role in brokering peace, describing his interventions as “decisive” and “fatherly.”
“I will never take Mr President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude,” he said.
Looking forward, the Governor pledged that his administration would complete all ongoing projects in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He vowed to work collaboratively with the state legislature to “recover lost ground” and accelerate development.
He concluded with a message of unity, urging citizens to abandon bitterness. “Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future,” Fubara said, adding, “The costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
The Governor also thanked religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and specifically acknowledged the roles played by Nyesom Wike, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and members of the National Assembly in resolving the impasse.
