Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has praised President Bola Tinubu for ending the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State, describing the move as a demonstration of commitment to peace and democracy.
In a statement released on Wednesday, September 17, by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike said the president’s intervention had restored the confidence of Rivers residents in their leadership.
“The president demonstrated commitment to peace and democracy with the emergency rule. His intervention restored the confidence of the people of Rivers State in his leadership,” the minister said.
Wike also commended the people of Rivers for their patience and support during the crisis. “From Rivers State going forward, the only news that will emanate will be that of peace, progress and development,” he added.
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He urged all political stakeholders to work together harmoniously for the collective benefit of the state and its citizens, while cautioning those seeking to exploit past tensions to stay away.
The president announced the lifting of the emergency on Wednesday, directing Governor Siminalayi Fubara to resume his duties on Thursday, September 18.
Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were also instructed to return to their offices.
The emergency had been imposed in March after a prolonged political crisis paralyzed governance in the oil-rich state, affecting the executive and legislative arms of government.