Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly thanked President Bola Tinubu for his prompt and decisive response to the recent political crisis in the state, crediting the President with averting further instability and potential chaos.
Speaking in Port Harcourt during a gathering with members of the Simplified Movement to mark his second year in office, Fubara acknowledged that Tinubu’s leadership played a critical role in restoring calm amid escalating tensions.
“If not for Mr. President’s wise and timely action, today’s story would have been much worse,” Fubara said, calling on his supporters and all Rivers residents to support ongoing efforts toward peace and reconciliation.
Tinubu’s Emergency Measures
On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following rising hostilities between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, the current Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. As part of the intervention, Tinubu suspended Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the entire House of Assembly for six months, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as interim administrator.
Appeal for Reconciliation and Unity
In a statement released by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara emphasized that peace is gradually returning and both the executive and legislative arms are on the path to full recovery.
“We must set aside ego and embrace reconciliation,” Fubara urged. “The interest of Rivers State must come before personal ambition.”
He also offered a public apology to anyone affected by decisions made during the crisis, stating they were all aimed at safeguarding the state’s peace and stability.
Progress Toward Reconciliation with Wike
Fubara confirmed that reconciliation efforts with his political rival and former ally, Nyesom Wike, are ongoing. He revealed that several meetings had already taken place, including personal discussions at Wike’s residence in Abuja.
“There’s no reason peace shouldn’t return between me and my Oga,” he said, expressing optimism about mending their relationship. “We will reconcile.”
Commitment to Stability and Governance
Assuring the public of a return to normalcy, Fubara pledged to rebuild trust and foster renewed collaboration between government institutions. He expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State and Nigerians at large for standing by the administration during difficult times.
“I want to earn the respect of the people not demand it,” he said, promising effective governance once normal operations resume.
Although the anniversary celebration was low-key due to the ongoing recovery process, Fubara affirmed his administration’s resolve to emerge stronger and more unified.
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