Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in the state, describing the move as a timely intervention that averted a descent into anarchy amid the protracted political crisis.
Fubara, speaking at a meeting with leaders of the Simplified Movement in Port Harcourt to mark his two years in office, said the President’s bold step helped stabilise the polity and protect democratic institutions in Rivers. He urged citizens to fully support the ongoing peace and reconciliation process aimed at restoring functional executive and legislative arms of government in the state.
“We are already in the peace process,” Fubara stated. “I want you to thank Mr President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation. If not for him, the story today would have been different.”
The governor, whose tenure has been overshadowed by a power tussle with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, expressed confidence that democracy and good governance would soon return, with both arms of government working harmoniously.
Assuring stakeholders of his commitment to reconciliation, Fubara noted that since Tinubu’s intervention, several peace meetings had been held — including some hosted at Wike’s residence. He pledged that reconciliation with Wike was imminent.
“There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga,” he said, referring to Wike. “There will be peace. We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
Fubara acknowledged the sacrifices of Rivers people during the political turmoil and promised to continue earning their respect. “One important thing in this life is respect. I want to earn the respect of the people, not force it on them,” he added.
He also apologised to those who may have felt let down by his handling of the crisis, saying his actions were motivated by the need to safeguard the peace and interest of Rivers State.
“I plead for forgiveness from anyone who felt disappointed,” Fubara said. “The interest of the State is paramount.”
The embattled governor expressed gratitude to Nigerians who stood by him during the crisis, applauding their loyalty and prayers. He reassured supporters that the administration would emerge stronger and more determined to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.
Fubara’s remarks come amid increasing calls for calm and unity in Rivers, following months of political instability that saw a fractured relationship between key arms of government and growing concerns among citizens.
