Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara resumed duties yesterday, weighed down by the political crisis that removed him under an emergency rule. He pledged loyalty to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and President Bola Tinubu. He explained that he resisted the urge to legally challenge the March 18 emergency declaration in Rivers, choosing instead to prioritize peace.
Describing the past six months under emergency rule as “extremely challenging,” Fubara promised never to take the President’s intervention for granted. He also vowed to fully uphold the peace agreement reached months ago.
First Broadcast: Commitment to Peace
In his first statewide broadcast hours after resuming duty on Friday, September 19, Fubara reiterated his loyalty to President Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike.
“The last six months have been enormously challenging for our State,” he said. “As your Governor, I accepted the state of emergency and cooperated with the President and National Assembly, believing that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress. That is why I resisted pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and other actions during this difficult period.”
Fubara recalled that during this time, “The President successfully brokered a peace process with all parties. Our Leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and I agreed to bury the hatchet and embrace reconciliation in the best interest of Rivers State. We believe the political crisis is now behind us, and peace and stability have returned, along with the lessons learned from the emergency.”
He emphasized that maintaining lasting peace requires commitment from the government, lawmakers, political leaders, and stakeholders. “We must set aside differences, work for the common good, and prioritize the interests of our people. Peace must endure in Rivers State.”
Fubara extended gratitude to the President for his “fatherly disposition and decisive interventions,” which restored full democratic governance. He reaffirmed his personal loyalty and eternal gratitude.
He acknowledged the concerns of citizens regarding the peace process and assured them that ‘nothing has been lost. There is still room for adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must remember: the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
Rebuilding Together
Fubara urged everyone to treat this moment as a fresh start. “Let us work with renewed hope and determination to build a stronger, more peaceful, and prosperous Rivers State. We will ensure that everyone is included.”
He highlighted the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other sectors over the past two years. He committed to completing ongoing projects, ensuring they are funded and maintained, reviving the economy, protecting lives, and improving the wellbeing of Rivers people.
“I pledge to work harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost ground and accelerate social and economic progress. I will serve with humility, a high sense of duty, and the fear of God.”
Fubara thanked citizens for their patience and peaceful conduct during the emergency. He also appreciated stakeholders, religious leaders, civil society groups, women and youth organizations, and well-wishers who supported the state during this period.
“Above all, let us draw strength from our shared identity as Rivers people. Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity guarantees our future. We must rise above bitterness and division and focus on rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness, and securing a peaceful and prosperous state.”
The Governor thanked Nyesom Wike and the Minister of the FCT for resolving the political impasse. He also expressed appreciation to the President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the National Assembly, the Rivers State House of Assembly, elders, and stakeholders who worked to ensure peace and harmony.
He called on all citizens, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, to unite in rebuilding Rivers State and securing a future of dignity and progress for all.
Arrival in Port Harcourt
Governor Fubara landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport at 12:19 p.m. in a private jet (registration 5N-BTX) from Abuja. A large crowd of supporters, who had been celebrating since Thursday, welcomed him with singing and dancing.
Accompanied by his wife, Valerie Fubara, and Chief of Staff Dr. Edison Ehie, the Governor was officially received by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nam Odu and other state leaders.
Wearing a blue jeans shirt and trousers with a black fez cap and dark sunglasses, Fubara smiled and acknowledged the cheers from the jubilant crowd. Supporters hailed him with chants such as “Welcome our Governor,” “Sir, we love you,” and “Our peace ambassador.”
“After arriving at Government House, Fubara said, The airport reception deeply humbled me. Seeing yesterday’s events in photographs also touched me. The warmth and support reflect love, confidence, and solidarity.” He then inspected the Government House lodge ahead of the statewide broadcast at 6 p.m.
