Governor Siminilayi Fubara of Rivers state has reacted to the declaration of a state of emergency in the state by President Bola Tinubu, countering that the claim that his administration did not adhere to the judgment of the Supreme Court.
Fubara who was suspended by Tinubu on Tuesday, March 18, urged residents of Rivers state to remain calm as they navigate the unfortunate moment in the state’s political history.
The suspended governor has been at loggerheads with his political godfather, Nyesom Wike, who had vowed to remove Fubara as governor of Rivers state.
In a statement on Tuesday, Fubara dismissed claims that the state of emergency was partly declared because of unrest in Rivers state. He noted that Rivers state was ‘safe, secure and peaceful’ under his watch.
Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers state while announcing the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Nma Odu and the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Fubara’s full statement reads:
“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”.
