Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, has described the state of emergency declaration in Rivers by President Bola Tinubu as unfortunate.
Tinubu declared emergency rule in the oil-rich state on March 18. The president also suspended the governor, his deputy and lawmakers of the Rivers house of assembly “for an initial period of six months”.
The president premised his proclamation on “latest security reports” and “disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines by some militant without the governor taking any action to curtail them”.
BACKGROUND
Rivers has been embroiled in political crisis since Fubara fell out with Nyesom Wike, his predecessor and minister of the federal capital territory (FCT).
The rift led to a polarisation of the Rivers state house of assembly, with the supreme court annulling the local government election conducted by the governor and ordering Fubara to present the 2025 budget to a faction of the legislature loyal to Wike.
On Monday, the pro-Wike faction of the legislature commenced impeachment proceedings against Fubara.
‘REMAIN PEACEFUL’
Speaking on the state of emergency declaration in an address to the people of Rivers, Fubara said he did try to comply with the apex court ruling on the impasse.
“I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history,” he said.
“Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
“We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.
“Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
“This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
“These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.”
Fubara alleged that the pro-Wike faction of the Rivers legislature frustrated his attempts to return the state to a path of peace. He added that as a resilient people, Rivers will overcome this chapter in its history.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult,” Fubara said.
“Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
“At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.”(the cable)
