Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially resumed duty, declaring that the prolonged political crisis has left “hard lessons” but nothing irretrievably lost.
In a statewide broadcast on Friday, Fubara said Rivers must now focus on reconciliation, unity, and accelerated development after six months under emergency rule.
The crisis began when President Bola Tinubu declared emergency rule on March 18 following a protracted conflict between Fubara and Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Fubara credited Tinubu for brokering peace among himself, Wike, and the state house of assembly, describing the president’s interventions as decisive and fatherly.
While noting the genuine fears and frustrations of residents about the peace process, Fubara assured citizens that “nothing has been irretrievably lost.”
He emphasized that there remains room for adjustments, inclusiveness, and reconciliation, urging Rivers political leaders to set aside personal differences for the collective interest of the state.
Fubara pledged to work closely with the Rivers State House of Assembly to “recover lost ground” and accelerate infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects.
Stressing that “the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war,” he appealed to citizens to embrace the current moment as a new beginning for sustainable growth.
The governor expressed appreciation to Rivers people for their patience during the six-month emergency, highlighting the role of religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups in sustaining calm.
He extended special thanks to Wike, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House Abbas Tajudeen, and members of the National Assembly for supporting reconciliation efforts.
Fubara reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, promising never to take his kindness for granted. Closing his address, he urged Rivers citizens to rise above bitterness, noting that “our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future.”