Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State, has expressed his feelings about the ongoing political turmoil in the state, stating that the situation is capable of making anyone depressed. His comments come in the wake of his recent suspension by President Bola Tinubu, following a state of emergency declared due to the growing conflict between the state’s executive and legislative branches.
In a heartfelt address to Muslim leaders who visited him at his private residence in Port Harcourt on Monday, Fubara shared his frustrations over the current situation but urged his supporters to remain hopeful, patient, and focused on the greater good of the state. The suspended governor acknowledged the challenging nature of the ongoing political developments, which have had a significant impact on his personal well-being and the state’s governance.
The Rivers State political crisis began to escalate after a series of disagreements between the executive and legislature, culminating in President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers for six months. This drastic move led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the state, an unprecedented step in recent Nigerian political history.
To manage the state’s affairs during this period, President Tinubu appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the sole administrator of Rivers State. This arrangement effectively sidelined the elected government, causing tension and frustration among both political figures and ordinary citizens in the state.
While the suspension of elected officials has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting the president’s intervention as a necessary action to restore order, others, including Fubara, view the situation as a political maneuver that has further deepened divisions in the state.
Speaking during his interaction with Muslim leaders, Fubara was candid about the emotional toll the political turmoil has had on him. He said, “We, as humans, might feel a bit depressed because of the situation, because of what we’re seeing, but we might not understand what is deeper that is beyond us that has happened.”
Fubara’s words highlighted the personal strain he has endured since the crisis erupted. Despite these challenges, he emphasized the importance of maintaining faith and patience. “But in everything, we have decided to give glory to God,” he added, a sentiment that resonated with many of the visitors who are familiar with the difficult environment in the state.
The suspended governor also used the opportunity to reflect on his vision for Rivers State, one that seeks to create a society where no one is oppressed. “Our dream and vision for this state is a society that no man should be oppressed,” he said, underscoring his belief that the struggle for justice and fairness is critical in the current phase of Rivers’ political history.
One of the central themes of Fubara’s address was the need for unity and patience, particularly in the face of provocation. He warned his supporters against being manipulated into actions that could destabilize the state. “Please be patient, don’t allow anybody to push you into any form of provocation because what they want is to destroy this state,” he cautioned.
The suspended governor also spoke about the importance of preserving peace and ensuring that the state continues to function effectively. He made it clear that the ultimate goal is to avoid chaos and maintain the state’s prosperity. “What they want is to create problems, to deny you that means of livelihood that you have here. We’ll not allow it. We’ll continue to operate in a peaceful manner, we’ll continue to respect constituted authority to ensure that this state remains the envy of every other state in Nigeria,” Fubara assured.
This appeal for peace and cooperation is crucial in a state where political divisions and tensions have sometimes boiled over into violence. Fubara’s comments are likely aimed at preventing further unrest and encouraging his supporters to act with restraint during this difficult period.
The situation in Rivers State has been widely discussed in political circles and among the general public. Many people have expressed concern about the negative impact of the political crisis on governance, development, and the daily lives of citizens. The suspension of key elected officials has created a power vacuum that has left many wondering about the future of governance in the state.
Critics of the suspension argue that the decision was politically motivated and undermines the democratic process. They believe that Fubara and his team were elected by the people of Rivers State, and their removal without due process could set a dangerous precedent for other states in Nigeria. Some see the appointment of a sole administrator as a violation of democratic principles, as it bypasses the state’s elected officials and concentrates power in the hands of an appointee.
On the other hand, supporters of the president’s decision contend that the political crisis had reached a point where intervention was necessary to restore order and prevent further instability. They argue that the president’s actions were a response to the disruptive and divisive nature of the conflict between the executive and legislature.
Despite the current challenges, Fubara remains hopeful for the future of Rivers State. His remarks to the Muslim leaders reflect a deep commitment to seeing the state emerge stronger from the political upheaval. The suspended governor’s focus on unity, patience, and non-violence is a reminder that, regardless of the political conflicts, the people of Rivers State must continue to work together to build a better future.
While the immediate political situation remains fluid, Fubara’s leadership and message of hope could play a significant role in calming tensions and encouraging reconciliation. His call for patience, understanding, and unity is a timely reminder of the importance of peace in governance, especially in a state as politically charged as Rivers.
