Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed to confront the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in democracy.
Fubara acknowledged the political tensions in the state but maintained that governance had remained unaffected.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly, appointing former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), as the state’s administrator for six months. Tinubu justified his decision by citing the ongoing political crisis, which escalated with the bombing of two oil pipelines by suspected militants.
Addressing the situation on Wednesday, Fubara called for calm, urging the people of Rivers State to remain steadfast.
“Since assuming office as your governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a deep sense of duty. We have prioritized the protection of lives and property while ensuring the continuous progress of our dear state,” he stated.
He emphasized his commitment to constitutional order and the rule of law, adding that despite political disagreements, his administration had ensured salaries were paid, projects progressed, and the state remained safe and secure.
Fubara also defended his response to Tinubu’s intervention in the crisis, saying he had implemented the agreed peace terms in good faith, including reinstating commissioners who had voluntarily resigned. He further noted that his efforts to comply with a Supreme Court ruling were obstructed by members of the state House of Assembly, making genuine peace and progress difficult.
“Our priorities remain the security of lives and property, as well as the prosperity of Rivers people. Yes, we have political disagreements, but governance has continued uninterrupted,” he said.
Calling on residents to remain law-abiding, he assured them that engagements with relevant institutions were underway to uphold democracy and ensure the state’s continued progress.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process,” Fubara reaffirmed.
