Fubara Reacts To His Suspension By Tinubu, Emergency Rule Declaration In Rivers

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed to handle the state of emergency imposed by President Bola Tinubu with wisdom, patience, and firm belief in democracy.

On Tuesday, Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly members, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state’s administrator for six months.

Tinubu justified the decision by citing the ongoing political crisis, which escalated with the bombing of two oil pipelines by suspected militants.

Addressing the people of Rivers, Fubara acknowledged the political tensions but insisted they had not disrupted governance.

He emphasized that his leadership had always been guided by his constitutional oath and a commitment to protecting lives, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the state’s continued progress.

The governor urged residents to stay calm as the state navigates what he described as an unfortunate chapter in its political history.

“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.”

Fubara also highlighted his willingness to implement peace agreements, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned, and complying with a Supreme Court ruling to restore normalcy.

He, however, accused the pro-Wike faction in the state legislature of obstructing efforts to stabilize the state.

Fubara said, “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.”

““Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.

“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.”

Reassuring Rivers residents, Governor Fubara called on them to remain law-abiding and steadfast.

“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,” he added.

Meanwhile, heavily armed soldiers have taken over the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt. Governor Fubara was still inside his residence when troops arrived around 9 p.m.