Suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with saving the state from the brink of anarchy, describing the president’s timely intervention as a pivotal move that prevented further political degeneration.
Fubara made the statement while addressing leaders and stakeholders of the Simplified Movement, a political support group aligned with his administration, during a meeting in Port Harcourt held to mark his two years in office.
“We must show deep appreciation to President Tinubu,” Fubara told his audience. “If not for his wisdom and timely response, the story in Rivers today would have been completely different.”
The embattled governor, whose suspension stems from the prolonged political crisis between his camp and allies of his predecessor, now Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, said efforts were underway to restore harmony across all arms of government.
Revealing that both executive and legislative reconciliation processes had commenced, Fubara assured his supporters that normalcy was gradually returning to the state.
“I want to assure you that you will return to your various offices, both in the executive and legislative arms. We are rebuilding trust, and I believe that we can work together again—for the progress of Rivers State,” he said.
He urged his followers to embrace forgiveness, describing it as the only way to rebuild the fractured political landscape.
“It’s not about any individual. The peace and interest of the state must come first,” he added.
Fubara disclosed that President Tinubu’s intervention has already led to a series of high-level reconciliation meetings, including some held at the Abuja residence of the FCT Minister, Wike.
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“There’s no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga,” Fubara said, referring to Wike. “We are talking. Reconciliation is already happening, and there will be peace.”
Though currently suspended, Fubara reiterated his commitment to the people, vowing to emerge stronger and more determined to deliver the dividends of democracy once stability is fully restored.
He acknowledged the frustrations and anger of his supporters, especially those who felt disillusioned by his handling of the crisis.
“To those I may have disappointed, I ask for forgiveness,” Fubara said. “Every action I took was to preserve peace and protect the future of our dear state.”
Promising not to take the people’s loyalty for granted, Fubara stated that respect must be earned, not imposed.
“One important thing in life is respect. I want to earn the respect of Rivers people, not force it on them. I’m with you all the way,” he concluded.
As Rivers State continues to navigate one of its most turbulent political chapters in recent history, Fubara’s remarks signal a possible path forward—anchored on dialogue, reconciliation, and renewed leadership.