Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has responded to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, which includes his suspension, by calling for calm and reaffirming his commitment to constitutional order.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Fubara expressed disappointment over the federal government’s decision, describing it as an unfortunate moment in the state’s political history. He emphasized that his administration has consistently prioritized the protection of lives and property while ensuring the state’s continued progress.
“Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty,” Fubara stated.
He recalled his willingness to embrace peace, referencing the implementation of President Tinubu’s earlier intervention efforts, including the reinstatement of commissioners who had resigned. He also noted his prompt compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment regarding the state’s political structure, stating that these actions were aimed at fostering stability rather than personal gain.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult,” he lamented.
Despite ongoing political tensions, Fubara maintained that governance in Rivers State had remained effective, with salaries paid, key projects executed, and security maintained.
“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure, and peaceful under our watch,” he stressed.
The governor urged Rivers residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding as his administration engages relevant institutions to ensure the protection of democracy.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process,” he assured.
With Fubara rejecting his suspension and vowing to fight through legal and democratic means, the political crisis in Rivers State is far from over, setting the stage for what could be a prolonged constitutional battle.
Read the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE
My dear Rivers People,
I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.
Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
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We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.
Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.
Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.
Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.
God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS