Governor Siminilayi Fubara has asked the people of Rivers State to remain calm and follow the law after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state.
The announcement was made on Monday, March 18, following ongoing political conflicts, including attempts to remove Governor Fubara from office.
As part of the decision, President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly. He also appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of the state.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 19, Governor Fubara reassured residents that he is committed to following the constitution and ensuring the well-being of the people.
“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,” he said.
He explained that his administration had followed peace agreements arranged by the presidency, including reinstating commissioners who had resigned. He also said his government followed the Supreme Court’s ruling to restore order. However, he accused the Rivers State House of Assembly of making it difficult to maintain peace.
Despite the challenges, Governor Fubara urged the people to remain patient and trust in efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully.
Read the full statement below
“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.
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 had 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”.
