By Nancy Okojie,
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has explained that he did not challenge the emergency rule in the state because he was convinced that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace and stability for the people. His decision, he said, was guided by a desire to prioritize the well-being of the state over a protracted legal and political battle.
In a recent broadcast to the state, Fubara acknowledged the pressure he faced from supporters to legally challenge the emergency rule, which he described as an “enormously challenging” period.
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However, he stated that he chose to cooperate with the Presidency and the National Assembly, as he believes that “the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.” His acceptance of the emergency rule, he noted, was a conscious choice to allow a path for reconciliation with all political parties involved in the crisis.
The Governor’s broadcast came after President Bola Tinubu officially ended the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State, which was declared to resolve a political standoff that had paralyzed governance.
Fubara also used the opportunity to reaffirm his loyalty and gratitude to President Tinubu for his “fatherly disposition” and decisive intervention that brokered peace.
Governor Fubara declared that he is committed to working harmoniously with the State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate the social and economic advancement of Rivers.
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He thanked President Tinubu, the National Assembly, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and all stakeholders that contributed to the restoration of peace and stability in the state.
The governor, who renewed his pledge to serve with the fear of God, humility and a high sense of duty, also thanked Rivers people for their patience and resilience during the emergency rule.
The Governor concluded by reassuring residents that his administration would now focus fully on governance and service delivery, including completing ongoing projects in the state.
He called on all stakeholders to ensure that the peace achieved endures, emphasizing that the political crisis is now behind them and that it is time to work together for the common good.
He, however, called on Rivers people, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, “to join hands in rebuilding the state and securing a future of dignity and progress for everyone.
In all, I give glory to the Almighty God.”
