Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has returned to office after six months of emergency rule, promising peace, unity, and loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Fubara made the pledge in a statewide broadcast on Friday, September 19, shortly after the Federal Government lifted the emergency rule imposed on Rivers State in March. He said he chose not to challenge the legality of the declaration in court for the sake of peace.
“As your Governor, I accepted to abide by the state of emergency declaration and chose to cooperate with Mr. President and the National Assembly, guided by my conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress of Rivers State,” Fubara said.
He described the past six months as “enormously challenging” but praised President Tinubu for brokering peace among all parties.
He added, “Personally, I will never take Mr. President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude.”
Fubara also thanked Wike for his role in resolving the political crisis, stressing that Rivers leaders had “accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State.”
The governor urged politicians, lawmakers, and citizens to put aside their differences and work together.
“We have a duty to ensure that the peace we have all embraced remains permanent in our dear Rivers State,” he said.
On arrival at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Fubara was received by a large crowd of supporters who sang and danced in celebration.
“That reception really humbled me. It showed love, confidence, and solidarity,” the governor told the cheering crowd.
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Looking ahead, Fubara promised to focus on governance and development, complete ongoing projects, and work harmoniously with the State House of Assembly.
“Despite the turbulence, you are aware of the credible milestones our administration achieved in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other key sectors over the last two years,” he said.
The governor also thanked traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, and citizens for their patience and support during the crisis.
“Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future. We must rise above bitterness and division,” he said.
Fubara called on all Rivers people, regardless of political or ethnic differences, to join hands in rebuilding the state.