Rivers State: Fubara responds to suspension by President Tinubu
The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has responded to his suspension by President Bola Tinubu, asserting that he has taken significant steps to foster peace and stability in the state despite the ongoing political crisis.
Fubara’s comments came shortly after President Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State, leading to the suspension of Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state’s House of Assembly.
The suspension follows President Tinubu’s efforts to mediate the crisis, which he claimed had been ignored by the warring factions in the state.
In a national broadcast on Tuesday evening, President Tinubu outlined the measures he had personally taken to resolve the situation, including direct intervention, but expressed frustration that his efforts had been disregarded by the local factions.
The president criticized Fubara for his role in the crisis, particularly highlighting the controversial demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly on December 13, 2023, and the subsequent failure to rebuild it.
Tinubu also pointed to the governor’s inability to address the recent vandalization of oil pipelines in the state.
During his broadcast, President Tinubu lamented the lack of cooperation between the state and legislative arms of government, which he noted had hindered the restoration of peace and governance in the state, despite a Supreme Court ruling regarding the state’s budget.
In response, Governor Fubara emphasized that his administration has consistently prioritized the protection of lives and property, as well as the ongoing development of Rivers State.
He stated that all his decisions have been guided by his constitutional oath and a profound sense of responsibility to the people of the state.
Fubara expressed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, even in the face of political tensions, ensuring that the interests of Rivers people were always the top priority.
He highlighted his swift actions in implementing peace agreements, including the reintegration of commissioners who had previously resigned, and his prompt compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment regarding the state budget.
The governor expressed frustration that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have consistently obstructed his efforts, making it difficult to achieve genuine peace and progress.
However, he reiterated that his administration has remained focused on advancing the well-being of Rivers people and executing important projects for the state’s development.
Governor Fubara made a direct appeal to the people of Rivers State, urging them to remain calm and law-abiding during this challenging period.
He stated:
“My dear people of Rivers State, I speak to you today with a sense of duty and calm as we face this challenging political situation in our state.
