The suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that he is not desperate to return to government, adding that his “spirit left the Government House long ago.”
Fubara, on the other hand, thanked the overwhelming support he has gotten from many people and emphasised the significance of sticking by those who have made sacrifices for him.
He made the statements on Sunday at a Night of Tributes hosted by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum in memory of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
The celebration was held in the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Fubara cautioned that the solemn event should not be misunderstood, particularly in light of the politically tinged remarks made by previous speakers and clergy.
This was his first public statement since President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office and imposed a state of emergency in the state on March 18, 2025.
“If I had my way, I wouldn’t want to return,” Fubara said. “But many people, including the late Chief Clark, have made sacrifices for me. That’s why I must stand by them.”
Speaking on comments made by some speakers, Fubara expressed concern that the event might be misrepresented as a political rally targeting his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and Tinubu. He urged speakers to exercise restraint.
“This is my first time speaking publicly since the events of March 18,” he said. “I’ve attended several gatherings, but I’ve been careful with my words. When the mood of an event doesn’t align with my beliefs, I feel uncomfortable—because many of you don’t truly understand the situation.”
Fubara continued, “It’s not about shouting ‘Oshobe, Oshobe’. At a point, that doesn’t solve anything. I had to be here because Pa Clark was special to me. My presence today is the most significant contribution I can make to honour him.”
Fubara warned that the event’s focus should remain on paying tribute to the late Pa Clark and not veer into political territory.
“This programme is a tribute to Pa Clark. It’s not about Sim Fubara,” he stressed. “Even though I respect the message from the bishop, today is not the time for political declarations. Otherwise, people will leave here saying Fubara gathered his supporters to attack the minister or the president. That’s not my mission.”
He added, “Do you think I’m even interested in going back? Just look at me—I look better now. I have peace. If I had my way, I wouldn’t go back there. My spirit left Government House long ago.”
He stressed that not every battle is worth fighting and urged the public to ask whether he truly desires to return to power.
“Inasmuch as we must stand with those who made sacrifices for us, that doesn’t mean we should start shooting blindly. Let us stay focused,” he advised.
He emphasised that the gathering was to remember Pa Clark and encouraged everyone to think about the late statesman’s legacy of peace, justice, and selfless devotion.
Meanwhile, in a statement issued by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara asked his followers to avoid combative rhetoric and instead follow his example of strategic calm and peacebuilding.
He stated that certain supporters’ statements and behaviour were inconsistent with his own ideals and could exacerbate tensions in the state.
Fubara frequently wonders whether his supporters actually believe their approach would lead to peace and reconciliation.
He cautioned against actions that could exacerbate an already fragile situation.
As a leader, he stated that he is aware of the weight of duty on his shoulders and is dedicated to working within the law to restore stability and propel Rivers State ahead.
He also added that he now has peace of mind and better health, and he urged everyone to be inspired by the late Chief Clark’s life, particularly his commitment to unity, justice, and peace in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria.
During his homily, Apostle Zilly Aggrey highlighted James 4:13-16, Hebrews 12:14-15, and Matthew 7:12, emphasising the importance of wisdom and reconciliation among political actors.
Apostle Aggrey urged all parties involved in the conflict to reconcile, underlining that only a unified people can overcome adversity.
He commended former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his role in Fubara’s election as governor and encouraged him to promote reconciliation for the sake of the state.
Aggrey also praised Tinubu for his efforts to manage the political issue and called for further proactive steps to restore democratic stability in Rivers State.
