State of Emergency: Fubara breaks silence, calls for calm amid suspension

Governor Siminilayi Fubara has called on the people of Rivers State to remain peaceful and law-abiding following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state. 

President Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency on Monday March 18, comes after prolonged political turmoil in Rivers, which saw impeachment attempts against Governor Fubara.

Following the declaration, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of the state, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In a statement released on Tuesday, March 19, Governor Fubara reiterated his commitment to constitutional governance and the well-being of Rivers residents, despite the ongoing political crisis.

“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,” he said.

The governor explained that his administration had implemented peace agreements brokered by the presidency, including reinstating resigned commissioners and complying with the Supreme Court’s judgment to restore normalcy. However, he accused the Rivers State House of Assembly of frustrating his efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Read the full statement below

“My dear Rivers People,

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

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.

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.

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”.

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