Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reassured residents that the ongoing political crisis will not weaken them but make them stronger.
During the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, Fubara welcomed Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, to his private residence in Port Harcourt. He used the occasion to encourage his supporters to remain patient and trust in God’s plan.
“This season is about love, sharing, and sacrifice,” Fubara said. “You have shown support by sharing in our pain and offering prayers. As Christians, we believe everything happens for a reason, and I trust that this situation is leading us to something greater.”
Fubara acknowledged that the crisis is challenging but suggested it could be part of a divine plan. According to a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor remains dedicated to justice, fairness, and a society free from oppression.
He assured the Muslim community that their concerns would be addressed once the political situation stabilizes. Urging patience, he used a biblical example, saying, “If God was patient with Noah and even allowed a snail to enter the Ark, then we, too, must remain patient.”
Fubara warned against those trying to create violence, urging Rivers people to reject efforts to destabilize the state. He emphasized that his administration would continue to work peacefully and respect the law to ensure Rivers State remains a model for others in Nigeria.
“Their goal is to create problems and make life difficult for the people,” he said. “We will not allow that. We will keep working for peace and progress.”
Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, expressed strong support for Fubara. He praised the governor for promoting religious inclusivity, unlike the previous administration, which declared Rivers a fully Christian state.
Uhor urged Fubara to stay strong, saying that challenges like these are part of both Christian and Islamic teachings, where leaders are tested by power and responsibility.
He also called on President Bola Tinubu to review the state of emergency in Rivers and restore Fubara’s full authority, recognizing his continued leadership despite the political crisis.
Through patience, unity, and peaceful governance, Fubara remains focused on guiding Rivers State toward a stronger and more inclusive future.
