ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Despite earlier stating he was not eager to return to the Brick House (Rivers State Government House), Governor Siminalayi Fubara has now declared that he will soon resume official duties at his post.
Addressing supporters, Rivers residents, and Nigerians, governor Fubara urged everyone to express gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his swift and decisive intervention, which he said prevented the escalating political crisis in the state from plunging it into anarchy.
He disclosed that the peace and reconciliation efforts seen as a critical step toward restoring full functionality to both the Executive and Legislative arms of government in the state are already underway.
Fubara also assured that Rivers State will soon witness the return of genuine democracy and good governance, with both branches of government working harmoniously for the public good.
The governor made these statements during a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of the Simplified Movement in Port Harcourt on Thursday, as part of events marking his second anniversary in office.
“I want to assure you that the issues will soon be resolved, and you will come back to your offices, not just at the Executive arm, but also legislative arm.
“And I also believe that the strong relationships we had before will return, and we will begin to work together again, for the good and progress of the State. What is important is for us to have a forgiving spirit,” Fubara stated.
He called on his supporters and all Rivers residents to appreciate President Tinubu wholeheartedly for stepping in to de-escalate the political unrest in the state, urging everyone to embrace the peace process fully to allow Rivers State move forward.
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“We are already in the peace process. I want you to thank Mr President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation, and stabilise the polity and the State. If not for Mr President, the story today would have been different.
“I don’t know how he gets his information, but the truth is that he acted with wisdom at the right time. He is the one you should thank. And let me also thank him personally for his intervention, and the personalities across the country, who moved in and appealed to him to intervene.
“We have to come down from our high horses and subject ourselves to the peace process. And that is what we are doing. What is important is for the State to move forward. It is not about you; the interest of the State is paramount.”
According to Vanguard, governor Fubara noted that the political turbulence had overshadowed plans to showcase his administration’s achievements as part of the second-year celebration.
He, however, assured that his government would emerge stronger, more united, and committed to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
Acknowledging the frustrations of those affected by the crisis, the governor said those expressing grievances had every right to be upset.
However, he emphasized that the time had come for all parties to embrace reconciliation, forgiveness, and peace for the benefit of Rivers State.
The governor also extended an apology to anyone who may have been disappointed by his approach to the crisis, stressing that his actions were guided by a commitment to preserving peace and the progress of the state.
He reiterated his gratitude to President Tinubu for acting as a father figure in restoring peace and pledged to reconcile soon with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of the state, Nyesom Wike.
“There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga,” Fubara said, referring to Wike. “There will be peace. We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
He disclosed that several reconciliatory meetings had already taken place since the President’s intervention, including some at Wike’s residence in Abuja.
Fubara expressed deep appreciation to the people of Rivers State for their sacrifices and the trust they reposed in him, promising to uphold their confidence with humility and respect.
“One important thing in this life is respect. I want to earn the respect of the people, not force it on them… I’m with you completely,” he declared.
He thanked the people of Rivers and all Nigerians who stood by him during the period of political turmoil, acknowledging their steadfast loyalty and prayers.