Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has appealed to his supporters, residents of Rivers State, and Nigerians at large to express gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for stepping in to prevent the state from descending into further political instability.
At a Thursday gathering with members and leaders of the Simplified Movement, commemorating his second year in office, Fubara disclosed that a peace and reconciliation initiative is in progress to restore unity between the state’s executive and legislative branches.
He gave assurances that Rivers State would soon experience the full return of democracy and effective governance, with both arms of government working in harmony for the public’s benefit.
“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 the Legislative arm. 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 said.
He urged the people of Rivers to embrace the reconciliation efforts wholeheartedly and give due credit to President Tinubu for his role in stabilizing the political atmosphere.
“We are already in the peace process. I want you to thank Mr President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation and stabilize the polity and the State. If not for Mr President, the story today would have been different,” he added.
Fubara commended the President’s foresight and swift decision-making, while also acknowledging the contributions of national figures who encouraged Tinubu to act.
“I don’t know how he gets his information, but the truth is 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.”
He appealed to all involved parties to put aside personal agendas and prioritize the state’s interests.
“We have to come down from our high horses and subject ourselves to the peace process. 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,” he stressed.
Fubara noted that the political turmoil overshadowed plans to celebrate his two-year anniversary in office, limiting opportunities to showcase his administration’s progress in various sectors. However, he expressed optimism that the government would rebound, more unified and determined to deliver tangible governance results.
To those dissatisfied with the situation, he acknowledged their feelings but encouraged reconciliation and mutual understanding for the betterment of the state.
He also asked for forgiveness from anyone who may have been disheartened by how he handled the crisis, stressing that all his decisions were aimed at safeguarding peace and progress in Rivers State.
Fubara reiterated his appreciation to President Tinubu for working toward restoring harmony and shared that discussions with FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike are ongoing and promising.
“There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga,” he said, referring to Wike. “There will be peace. We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
He concluded by thanking Rivers residents and Nigerians for their unwavering support throughout the political crisis and promised to continue earning their respect through integrity and service.
“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 said, extending heartfelt thanks to those who stood by him during the turbulent period.
