Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has attributed the ongoing political crisis in the state to a battle for control over state resources, which he vows will continue to serve the people’s welfare. Speaking on Sunday during the 51st birthday celebration of Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries Worldwide, Fubara emphasized that the resources of Rivers State belong to the people and should be used solely for their benefit.
“There is a reason for this crisis, and that reason is the control of the resources of Rivers State,” Fubara stated at the church headquarters in Mbodo, Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area. “Rivers State’s resources belong to you, the people, and we will make sure that the resources are applied judiciously for the betterment of Rivers State.”
The governor appealed to the public for support through prayer to stay focused amidst political challenges. “What you owe us is just one thing: continue to pray for us,” he urged. “Let us not lose focus because we know the devil is always at war to derail people in governance. With your prayers, we will not lose focus, and the purpose of governance will be achieved in Rivers State.”
Fubara also commended Apostle Chinyere for his significant contributions to society through various educational and philanthropic initiatives. He praised the cleric’s commitment to providing technical and vocational training for children, which he believes is crucial for their future employment.
“I want to commend you for your actions,” said Fubara. “Life is not all about taking. What is important in life is giving, and anyone who believes that it is only about taking will not go far in life. For all you are doing for humanity, God will continue to strengthen you.”
The governor went on to pledge a donation of N200 million to Omega Power Ministries to support its ongoing infrastructure projects, including a building designated to host visitors for church programs. “Let me, on behalf of the government and the good people of Rivers State, donate the sum of N200 million to support the project,” Fubara announced, expressing gratitude for the church’s continuous prayers and support during the state’s challenging times.
Mrs. Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, was also present at the event and commended Apostle Chinyere’s philanthropic work, calling him a “beacon of hope, strength, restoration, and spiritual guidance” for the community. She encouraged him and other religious leaders to continue praying for peace in Rivers State, describing him as a blessing to both the church and the wider world.
In response, Apostle Chinyere highlighted his commitment to giving back to the community, particularly by supporting girls’ education to deter young women from resorting to prostitution. He explained that the Omega Power Ministries established an all-girls technical college to equip young women with skills, hoping to reduce the number of girls turning to prostitution to fund their education.
“We find out that if you go to Casablanca, a place in GRA, Port Harcourt, you will see many girls, most of them university students,” Chinyere shared. “When they finish secondary school and enter university, they struggle to meet the demands of handouts, school fees, and feeding, so they have to use what they have to get what they need. The only way to solve this problem is to empower the girl child.”
Governor Fubara closed by reiterating his commitment to prioritizing the people of Rivers State in his governance. “Power has injected my power into you,” he said to the congregation. “So, I need more power—more power for the progress of Rivers State, more power for the defense of humanity in Rivers State. God will bless you people for your prayers, and I assure you, we will not fail you.”