Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminilayi Fubara has urged the people of the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding in the face of the state of emergency declared in the state.
President Bola Tinubu had, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the unabated political crisis in the state.
Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Iboette Ibas to administer the state after suspending Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, as well as the elected members of the state Assembly.
Speaking in an address to the people of the state on Tuesday, Fubara said his administration had been guided by his constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty since his assumption of office as the governor of Rivers State.
Fubara said he had prioritised the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of the state.
He stated: “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.”
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According to him, they moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately he received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
He stated that these steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult,” Fubara added.
Fubara stated that the priorities of his administration remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of the people of Rivers State.
Fubara noted that though there was political disagreements in the state, good governance had continued, salaries were being paid, and projects executed to move the state forward.
He stated that in all, the state was safe, secured, and peaceful under his watch.
“We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and the Rivers State continues to thrive,” Fubara said.
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