Governor Fubara recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had declared emergency rule in March 2025 to douse the intense political crisis that rocked the state. He admitted the period was “enormously challenging,” but said he chose to cooperate with the President and National Assembly rather than contest the legality of the decision.
Acknowledging Peace Efforts
The governor lauded President Tinubu’s “fatherly disposition and decisive intervention” in brokering peace among political leaders, including former governor and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“We believe the political crisis is now behind us and that peace and stability have once again returned to Rivers State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule,” Fubara said.
He urged political leaders, lawmakers, and stakeholders to put aside their differences, stressing that the responsibility now lies on everyone to make the peace permanent.
Reaffirming Loyalty to Tinubu
Fubara expressed personal gratitude and loyalty to President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance to the state. He reassured citizens who remain skeptical about the peace process that their concerns are valid but insisted that reconciliation and inclusiveness remain achievable.
“The costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war,” he reminded Rivers residents.
Focus on Governance and Development
The governor pledged to refocus on governance, promising that ongoing projects in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other sectors would not be abandoned. He vowed to work harmoniously with the State House of Assembly to “recover lost grounds and accelerate social and economic advancement.”
Fubara also highlighted his administration’s achievements over the last two years despite the turbulence, adding that efforts would now be channeled toward reviving the state’s economy, protecting lives and property, and improving citizens’ wellbeing.
Appreciation to Rivers People
In closing, the governor thanked the people of Rivers State for their patience and resilience during the six months of emergency rule.
“Let us embrace this moment as a fresh beginning. Let us work together with renewed hope and determination to build a stronger, more peaceful, and prosperous Rivers State,” he said.
